Nuclear energy is a reliable, low-carbon power generation option that contributes to Canada’s net zero ambitions. As with all forms of energy, the nuclear sector must safely manage its environmental performance, including management of used nuclear fuel and other radioactive waste

Under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA), all licensed nuclear facilities are required to develop, implement and maintain an environmental monitoring program to protect the public and the environment from emissions related to the facility’s nuclear activities. Furthermore, all steps in the management of radioactive waste are regulated to protect health, safety, and the environment. Radioactive waste generated during uranium mining, processing, and operation of nuclear power plants and other facilities is categorized based on the degree of containment and isolation necessary to ensure safety, and is managed accordingly.

The suite of CSA standards for environmental management, radioactive waste management, and decommissioning of nuclear facilities provides a comprehensive framework that can help minimize risks, protect the environment, and promote sustainability and reliability. Many of the standards apply across the nuclear fuel cycle, from uranium mining to long-term management of used nuclear fuel and address:

• environmental risk assessment for nuclear facilities and uranium mines and mills
• environmental monitoring and protection programs for nuclear facilities and uranium mines and mills
• general principles for the management of radioactive waste and irradiated fuel
• characterization of radioactive waste and irradiated fuel
• storage of radioactive waste and irradiated fuel
• decommissioning of nuclear facilities