Message from Glenn Jager, NWMO Board Chair

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It is exciting to see the progress that the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) has made in 2023. The organization moved forward on the plan to safely manage used nuclear fuel long term, preparing to select a site for the deep geological repository and enter the regulatory decision-making process.

The Board’s experience working in the nuclear and energy sectors have instilled in us the need for the NWMO’s work, and the momentum this year demonstrates that Canada is embracing its shared responsibility for the future.

Canada can proudly say we are a global leader in nuclear energy technology as we — and many others around the globe — move towards a clean energy future. It is encouraging to see people and communities, both in the potential siting areas and more widely, gain a deeper understanding of nuclear energy and Canada’s plan. That has been achieved through the NWMO’s ongoing dedication to partnership, engaging with experts, sharing knowledge and answering questions.

The regulatory decision-making process that will follow site selection in 2024 will be rigorous and challenging, as it should be, to ensure the protection of people and the environment. The NWMO’s ongoing engagement activities and technical leadership have positioned it well to be accountable to communities, government and regulatory expectations.

Site selection will only happen with informed and willing hosts, and following it, engagement will not stop. The NWMO’s dedication to community willingness and well-being is a model for the rest of the world and has positioned Canada as a leader in nuclear waste management. The same best practices developed here and internationally for the siting of used nuclear fuel will be applied in developing the management of intermediate-level and non-fuel high-level waste — a new mandate for the NWMO.

In 2023, the federal government accepted the NWMO’s recommendations for the Integrated Strategy for Radioactive Waste, an important milestone for Canada and the organization. As with Canada’s plan for used nuclear fuel, a comprehensive strategy for other types of waste was needed, and the NWMO is well placed to take on its part — developing the plan to safely manage intermediate-level and non-fuel high-level waste.

The Board is confident that the NWMO is prepared to navigate the work and dialogue ahead. It has always been an organization focused on preparing for the future and doing so in close collaboration with all Canada. I hope this report provides you with a clear vision on the efforts completed and about to be undertaken. I encourage you to join the conversations in the year ahead. As we look to the future, that collaborative spirit will guide us.