The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has given the go-ahead for the construction of a near-surface disposal facility (NSDF) for low-level nuclear-waste at the Chalk River Laboratories site in Deep River.

The commission says its review of the project concluded that the project, “is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects, provided that CNL implements all proposed mitigation and follow-up monitoring measures, including continued engagement with Indigenous Nations and communities and environmental monitoring to verify the predictions of the environmental assessment.”

The NSDF would provide a permanent disposal site for up to 1 million cubic metres of solid low-level radioactive waste, such as contaminated personal protective clothing and building materials. The majority of the waste to be placed in the facility is currently in storage at the Chalk River Laboratories site or will be generated from environmental remediation, decommissioning, and operational activities at the Chalk River Laboratories site.

Approximately 10% of the waste volume will come from other AECL-owned sites or from commercial sources such as Canadian hospitals and universities.

The design of the facility includes an engineered containment mound, a wastewater treatment plant, and other support facilities. The facility would be located entirely within the boundary of the Chalk River Laboratories site and is situated 1.1 km from the Ottawa River, on a bedrock ridge that slopes away from the river.

The commission concluded that the design of the NSDF project is robust, supported by a strong safety case, able to meet its required design life, and sufficient to withstand severe weather events, seismic activity, and the effects of climate change.

Community groups have spoken against the proposal for some time, arguing that the landfill could pollute the river, which is a source of drinking water for several communities – including Ottawa.

For its part, the CNSC said it consulted with Indigenous groups and First Nations.

"The Commission was satisfied it had fulfilled its constitutional responsibility to consult and, where appropriate, accommodate Indigenous rights in respect of its decision making on the NSDF project," the CNSC said. "In making its [environmental assessment] decision, the Commission concluded that the NSDF project is protective of human health and the environment, including the Ottawa River, and that the proposed site is an acceptable and safe location for the NSDF project."