Site end state controls and stewardship

Abstract

Many countries are now pursuing a ‘site end state’ for historic contaminated sites. These sites range from nuclear research sites, early nuclear power plants, military and nuclear weapons testing sites, historic radioactive waste disposal sites, uranium mining and processing sites and sites where naturally occurring radioactive materials is handled. Approaches on modern sites typically enable decommissioning to an unrestricted use. However, for many historic or complex sites, controls will be required to manage residual hazards. Where controls are part of a long-term remedial approach, stewardship is essential to ensure continued protection to people and the environment.

The role of the steward is broader than manager; stewardship embodies the ethical value to take good care of something. The steward is often the liability holder who has the responsibility to ensure funding and knowledge management remain in place for as long as residual hazards exist.

Over the past decade, the industries’ understanding has evolved regarding how to define a site end state, how to implement controls and what is required for stewardship and post closure management. Whilst there is more to learn there are valuable lessons to be taken from sites where controls and stewardship have been or are being implemented.