Key factors affecting disposal of radioactive waste in the sustainable development approach

Abstract

Abstract The radioactive waste disposal is a well investigated issue worldwide because of its importance for a safe and sustainable use of nuclear energy. Such waste is subject to final storage in deep geological disposals. Many factors have a direct contribution to the success of such innovative facility. The objective of the study is to identify the principal factors which contribute to the radioactive waste location. Factors that influence public acceptance are recognized and emphasized in the paper. The methodology is based on a questionnaire for empirical data obtaining and interviews with a selected group of experts to explore the insights of a disputed topic. The study reveals the quantitative analysis of the key factors as well-established contributors for understanding how and where to construct a radioactive waste facility. General information about the respondents was considered, as well as the possibility and the level of cooperation with stakeholders, the degree of information and the motivation of the given benefits as important influential factors over location and construction of a radioactive waste disposal. Overall, the study has shown that various factors influence the general public attitude, and this aspect leads to a direct influence on the location and construction of such a facility. The novelty of the research consists in key factors investigation that specially influence the location and the construction of a radioactive waste disposal, especially because the available literature studies in this area are not so strong developed yet.