Current content for the repository search

Current status of the repository search

The timetable for the repository search

Ein Wimmelbild mit vielen Rechtecken und einer zentrierten Perspektive.

Search for a repository site

Ein Mann und sein Sohn schauen sich Informationstafeln an.

Information for neighbouring countries

Das Bild zeigt mehrere Fahnenmasten verschiedener Länder hintereinander aufgereiht.

Latest Announcements

BASE presents participation concept

2024.10.11

BASE presents participation concept for consultation

2024.09.26

Current research findings on the search for a repository

2024.10.02

The way to a repository site in three stages

Phase 1

In the first phase, the company commissioned to conduct the search, the Federal Company for Radioactive Waste Disposal (BGE mbH), collects geological data from the federal states and evaluates this information according to criteria laid down in law. Among these are exclusion criteria like seismic activity, volcanic activity or damage to the bedrock caused by mining. Furthermore, BGE mbH examines which areas meet the minimum requirements, in its view. For example, 300 metres of rock should separate the disposal facility from the earth’s surface. A sufficiently strong layer of granite, salt or clay must surround the disposal site. BGE mbH has published an Interim Report for discussion in the autumn of 2020 so that members of the public can get an insight of what progress has been made as early as possible.

Phase 2

In the second phase, surface explorations take place. BGE mbH explores the bedrock using exploratory drilling and seismic measurements. More sites are excluded and the associated regional conferences are disbanded. BASE examines the proposal made by BGE mbH about which sites should be explored underground. The German parliament takes the final decision.

Phase 3

In the third phase, BGE mbH will set up exploratory mines at two sites at least. Geologists explore the rocks using bore holes and other methods. BASE assesses the results of the exploratory work and the participation process and suggests the best possible location for the disposal site. The German parliament takes the final decision by passing a law related to the site.

More info

Participation

Participating the public is an important principle of the search for a final repository. Participation contributes to a higher transparency of the decision taken and ensures an ongoing review of the behavior of involved stakeholders.

The first formal participation format

The sub-areas conference website explains its role in the search for a repository.

Involving young people

Humans and the environment must be permanently protected from the dangerous radiation of high-level radioactive waste. Both the risk and the corresponding time span are difficult to imagine. The issue particularly concerns those who are young today. But how can young people learn about and participate in the search for a repository?

Public participation

BASE, the organisation responsible for public participation, provides extensive information about the search for a repository site and offers various formats so that the public can become actively involved in the process.