Regulatory and Legal Framework for Radioactive Waste Management and Decommissioning in Türkiye

Abstract

Nuclear energy and radiation applications are used in many areas such as electricity generation, health sector, industry, and food sector. These activities generate radioactive waste and need to be managed through various specific policies and strategies. In this context, Türkiye’s national legal framework and strategy are defined in Nuclear Regulation Law No. 7381. Additionally, Türkiye is a party to the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management. Furthermore, the country has regulations specifically aimed at governing radioactive waste management. With this regulatory and legal structure, the country aims to manage radioactive waste in a safe, secure, sustainable, and responsible manner within the framework of international agreements and well-accepted standards. Currently, only one radioactive waste processing and storage facility exists in Istanbul, operated by the Türkiye Energy, Nuclear and Mineral Research Agency. Additionally, Türkiye is currently developing a Near Surface Disposal Facility, which is expected to begin accepting radioactive waste in the 2030s. Considering plans for putting its nuclear power plant into operation in the very near future, the country’s ever-increasing energy need, and prioritisation of nuclear energy for energy diversity, the current status of Türkiye’s nuclear law and regulations regarding radioactive waste is extremely important. This article analyses the basic principles and concepts of Türkiye’s regulatory and legal framework for radioactive waste management and decommissioning.