Bugs in the nuclear fuel cycle

Unless prompt and effective actions are taken for the safeguarding and handling of nuclear fuels, the use of nuclear fission energy will be limited. This is the conclusion of the U.S. Energy Research and Development Administration in a report (ERDA-33) published in March. Whereas risks associated with nuclear reactors have been quantified and put in perspective, questions remain about risks associated with the safeguarding and handling of the nuclear fuels themselves. As a result, little progress is being made in the "back end" of the fuel cycle - that which includes temporary storage of spent fuel, reprocessing of spent fuel, and waste storage and/or disposal. ERDA cites these additional reasons for its concern: