The Power and Limits of Classification: Radioactive Waste Categories as Reshaped by Disposal Options
نویسندگان
چکیده
How does naming an object affect the way it is or could be managed? This paper examines and compares classification systems for radioactive waste applied by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in France, Canada, Belgium. I analyze how relevant actors classify objects, so doing, prescribe their management. By comparing describing four established systems, highlight IAEA national systematically associate “high-level waste” category with “deep geological disposal” option. Building on Science Technology Studies, argue that creating categories of high-level more than just describe different types wastes: It also prescribes certain management options (e.g., deep disposal), thereby opening up action closing down others. underline uncertainties remain about what to do wastes blurred, unstabilized are classified named differently actors. Examples “blurred” include spent nuclear fuel from uranium oxide mixed-oxide fuel. Should these managed as a resource? common fate disposal? Revealing power limits top-down system manage waste, maintain remaining reverse dynamics imagining final long-term repository option given category. In absence stabilized categories, disposal becomes primary mode classifying objects either resource. analysis flips conventional notion its head: Instead asking should preferred deal chosen has decisive influence counts first place. Nuclear engineers top managers invited take fresh look at systems. They potentially consider new focus (the option) allies (such designers, nongovernmental organizations, civil society) overcome them.
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ژورنال
عنوان ژورنال: Nuclear Technology
سال: 2021
ISSN: ['0029-5450', '1943-7471']
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00295450.2021.1888618