A model of economic incentives for volume reduction of low-level radioactive waste

Abstract

A model is developed and demonstrated to evaluate the economic incentives for volume reduction of low-level radioactive waste. Cost functions for waste disposal versus waste volume are generated. Cost functions for volume reduction are described which are unique to individual waste generators. A model is developed for total cost, the sum of disposal, and volume reduction costs. Volume reduction results in lost economies of scale at a disposal site and therefore higher disposal costs. Calculations are presented for disposal by shallow land burial pursuant to IOCRF Part 61. In general, total cost to a waste generator in a small compact is predicted to be 10 to 15 times that of a generator in a large compact. Unsited regions subject to surcharge penalties have a substantial economic incentive to reduce volume. An individual waste generator has an economic incentive to reduce volume to a greater extent than the average volume reduction implemented throughout the compact; however, there may be an overall economic penalty if all generators reduce volume. As a whole, large compacts are predicted to experience greater costs when volume is reduced to less than 50% of the original volume. Small compacts are redicted to reach an optimum total disposal plus volume reduction costs savings of 9% when waste volume is reduced to 30% of its original volume. Present legislation unnecessarily penalizes the consumer who benefits from processes resulting in low-level radioactive waste production.