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For the first time in the UK, a panel of 16 members of the public will be consulted about the controversial issue of radioactive waste management. Their conclusions and recommendations will help shape government policy on this issue.

This new style of public debate – the Consensus Conference – promises to ensure that the citizen’s viewpoint is carefully considered. The Citizens’ Panel is currently preparing for the conference by learning about radioactive waste management, deciding the questions that need to be asked and selecting the experts or ‘witnesses’ to answer these questions.

The UK National Consensus Conference on Radioactive Waste is open to everyone. You will be able to:

• Contribute by asking your own questions
• Watch the panel members cross-examine expert witnesses
• See expert witnesses debating the issues
• Witness the panel presenting its final report

Most radioactive waste is produced during the preparation and handling of fuel used to generate electricity in nuclear power stations, from activities associated with nuclear weapons and from the closing down (‘decommissioning’) of old nuclear facilities. Smaller amounts of radioactive waste come from radioactive materials used in medicine, agriculture, industry and scientific research.

Radioactive waste constitutes a national problem for which a national solution must be found. At present the UK lacks a clear policy for the long-term management of radioactive waste. Waste is currently being stored pending a decision on what to do with it.

The Consensus Conference is being organised by the UK Centre for Economic and Environmental Development (UK CEED), an independent charitable foundation committed to promoting environmental excellence to government, business and individuals. The Conference is funded by the Office of Science and Technology, the Natural Environment Research Council and Nirex.

You can find further details and current news about the Consensus Conference at www.ukceed.org

Individual: 8 pounds sterling (Concessions: 4 pounds sterling)

Corporate: 30 pounds sterling

Individual: 16 pounds sterling (Concessions: 8 pounds sterling)

Corporate: 60 pounds sterling