Further search for a nuclear waste disposal site
The area "Nördlich Lägern" seems to be a closer choice again for the federal government and the nuclear power plants in Würenlingen.
The federal government, the nuclear power plants and the interim storage facility in Würenlingen have been looking for a suitable site for the final disposal of radioactive waste since 1972. The National Cooperative for the Disposal of Radioactive Waste (Nagra) still has its sights on three potential sites where the waste will be stored for generations to come: Jura East, Northern Lägern and Zurich Northeast. All three sites are located in northeastern Switzerland. The region belongs to the cantons of Aargau and Zurich and borders Germany.
According to a report by the "SRF"Nagra did not want to carry out any further test drilling until 2015. The composition of the watertightness and the rock layer are comparable with other properties. Everywhere, the thickness of the layer is higher than over 100 meters. According to a Nagra spokesperson, the properties of the Opalinus Clay allow the construction of a safe deep repository. The affected communities are not surprised. It had already become apparent in recent months that Nördlich Lägern could again be considered as a possible site.
Nagra expects to be able to announce in two years' time which region it will prefer for the radioactive repository. The final choice will be made by the Federal Council and Parliament and, if necessary, by the people as the final authority.
Source: SRF
