Advances, Challenges, and Perspectives in Geological Disposal of High-Level Radioactive Waste

Extensive multidisciplinary research has been conducted for decades but how is this knowledge best applied in site selection, design, and operation of disposal facilities?Among the numerous national waste disposal programmes currently underway worldwide, several are entering decisive phases in site selection, licensing or construction on their trajectory towards an operational facility. It is, therefore, time to take stock, assess existing knowledge, and provide recommendations. To this end, this Research Topic consolidates insights from the extensive body of research spanning from the 1980s until today, ensuring generational knowledge transfer and fostering interdisciplinary exchange essential for safe and timely final disposal.By bringing together diverse perspectives in one collection, we aim to strengthen the scientific foundations and enhance the practical approaches for final disposal of radioactive waste in deep geological formations, ultimately creating added value for policymakers and regulatory authorities.Contributions from all disciplines engaged in the scientific, technical, societal, and regulatory dimensions of final disposal of radioactive waste are welcomed. Researchers, implementers, regulators, and industry representatives may share insights on innovative concepts and practical applications. Theoretical, empirical, and experimental research, as well as Review and Perspective articles are welcomed.To advance fundamental and interdisciplinary understanding and the methods and practices needed to tackle the key challenges of radioactive waste disposal, contributions in this Research Topic will explore:• advances in scientific, technical, and regulatory foundations• safety and verification approaches across repository lifecycle, including operation, emplacement, and closure• comparative analyses of national strategies• social acceptance, governance, and knowledge transfer across generations. Topic editors: Sarah Weihmann, Tuanny Cajuhi, Michael Kühn, Katharina Müller, Thomas Nagel, Klaus-Jürgen Röhlig, Ulrich Smeddinck Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/74966/advances-challenges-and-perspectives-in-geological-disposal-of-high-level-radioactive-waste