Canada’s Nuclear Future: Clean, Safe, Responsible

OTTAWA - The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of Natural Resources, today announced an initiative vital to the future of nuclear energy in Canada. The Government of Canada has accepted the Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s (NWMO) recommended approach for managing used nuclear fuel in Canada.

“Good governance depends on responsible decisions, and today we are taking steps toward a safe, long-term plan for nuclear power in Canada for future generations,” said Minister Lunn.

Minister Lunn announced the selection of the Adaptive Phased Management (APM) option as the recommended approach for managing used nuclear fuel in Canada over the long term. APM includes the isolation and containment of used nuclear fuel deep in the earth, with an option for temporary shallow underground storage.

“This is a safe, long-term approach. APM will ensure the used nuclear fuel is monitored and retrievable,” said Minister Lunn. “It is also designed to take advantage of emerging energy technologies, including the possibility of recycling the fuel.”

The NWMO will now begin planning and designing a site-selection process collaboratively with Canadians. Throughout this process, the Government of Canada will continue to provide oversight as required by the Nuclear Fuel Waste Act.

Nuclear power is a clean energy source that emits virtually no greenhouse gases. It contributes 15 percent of Canada’s electricity generation and 50 percent of the electricity supply in Ontario alone. Nuclear energy is important to Canada’s energy supply, to our security and to the Government’s commitment to clean energy and the reduction of greenhouse gases.

Today’s announcement reflects Canada’s New Government’s commitment to taking decisive, responsible steps to protect the health of Canadians, our environment and our future energy needs.