Nuclear Energy Agency Online Bulletin

January 2001

Nuclear Development


Nuclear Energy Data (The 'Brown Book')

An enhanced version of the yearly publication on nuclear energy data (the 'Brown Book') is being developed during 2001 with a view to producing a more comprehensive and user-friendly publication in 2002. With the assistance of experts from Member countries, the NEA is revising the Brown Book's coverage, time horizon and presentation. The key changes being considered include:

  • extending the time horizon for nuclear projections (up to 2020);
  • introducing low and high scenarios for nuclear capacity in each country;
  • adding data on some fuel cycle steps, such as radioactive waste management, and on other aspects, such as the doses resulting from nuclear energy operation;
  • country reports on main events in the nuclear power field during the year.

A new project on the socio-political aspects of nuclear energy

A better understanding of the sociological and political factors affecting decisions in the nuclear energy field is being considered by many Member countries as a prerequisite for the further development of nuclear power programmes. In this context, the Nuclear Development Committee is launching a new project on the socio-political aspects of nuclear energy in its 2001-2002 programme of work. The NEA has initiated a reflection on the scope of the project and the work methodology to be adopted.

Sixth Information Exchange Meeting on Actinide and Fission Product Partitioning and Transmutation

The Sixth Information Exchange Meeting on Actinide and Fission Product Partitioning and Transmutation (P&T) was held on 11-13 December 2000 in Madrid (Spain). The meeting concluded that P&T concepts and technology have progressed steadily during the past years leading to increased confidence in the feasibility of a 100-fold reduction in the masses and activity of radioactive waste. However, the scientific community recognised the need for enhanced collaboration with other stakeholders (such as those involved in the technical and policy aspects of radioactive waste management) if this potential is to materialise. In addition, further strengthening international co-operation would facilitate progress, since increased R&D funding is expected to be needed to support key developments in the field. The proceedings of the meeting will be published shortly. The papers presented are already available at www.oecd-nea.org/pt/6iem.html.

More than 160 participants from 16 countries and 3 international organisations attended the meeting during which 46 oral and 40 poster presentations were given over five sessions. These covered technical aspects of P&T as well as its role in future, advanced nuclear fuel cycles. The meeting benefited from the co-operation of the European Commission and was hosted by the Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT) and ENRESA.

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