GDF (Geological Disposal Facility)
The safe, secure, and long-term solution for the most hazardous radioactive waste in the UK.
Nuclear Waste Services (NWS) manages the delivery of the UK’s first Geological Disposal Facility (GDF).
The UK Government’s GDF siting process requires Nuclear Waste Services to identify both a suitable site and a willing host community
Illustrative example of a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF)
Today, nuclear power is viewed by the UK Government as essential to the low-carbon energy mix and securing our energy supply in the future.
The GDF programme is a key enabler for the governments nuclear new build ambitions.
Most hazardous radioactive waste destined for a GDF is currently safely stored above ground at over 20 UK sites.
This waste needs to be managed safely and securely, both now and for the very long-term containing and isolating the waste making it safe for future generations.
A GDF involves isolating nuclear waste deep underground in suitable geological formations and placing it in highly engineered vaults and tunnels.
A GDF will be constructed 200 to 1,000 metres below ground or beneath the seabed. At this depth, waste will be protected from natural events like earthquakes and long-term environmental changes such as future ice ages or sea level rises.
GDFs are internationally recognised by governments, technical experts, and scientists as the best solution for the disposal of our most hazardous radioactive waste.
Investing in a GDF now offers a permanent solution and removes the need for ongoing human intervention for future generations.
Read more, below.