Considerations for Environmental Impact Assessment for Small Modular Reactors

Member States are showing renewed interest in small modular reactors (SMRs), which have unique technical characteristics that offer new deployment opportunities. This publication provides an overview of environmental impact assessment (EIA) considerations for SMRs, emphasizing their importance in licensing and confirming the suitability of potential sites. It discusses approaches to address specific issues related to the EIA for SMRs, which will be valuable to technology holders and licensing authorities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 44 pages
Publication date: 30 January 2021
Publisher: IAEA

Member States are showing renewed interest in the development and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs). These reactors possess unique technical characteristics that open up new avenues for their deployment. To address this, this publication offers up-to-date information on environmental impact assessments (EIAs) related to SMRs. In many regulatory frameworks, the EIA report is a crucial prerequisite for licensing and serves as a vital tool to ensure that the potential site is suitable for the future construction and operation of a reactor. Therefore, this publication, which delves into approaches to address specific challenges associated with the EIA for SMRs, is of immense value to technology holders and licensing authorities.

The interest in SMRs is driven by several factors. Firstly, they offer a scalable and flexible solution for generating electricity, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, from small-scale power generation to large-scale grid integration. Secondly, SMRs are designed with safety and security in mind, incorporating advanced technologies and passive safety systems to minimize the risk of accidents.

However, the development and deployment of SMRs also raise several environmental concerns. These concerns include the potential impact on air quality, water resources, and biodiversity, as well as the disposal of radioactive waste. To address these concerns, rigorous EIA processes are required to assess the potential environmental impacts of SMRs.

The EIA for SMRs involves a comprehensive assessment of the potential environmental impacts of the reactor's construction, operation, and decommissioning. This includes evaluating the potential effects on human health and safety, the environment, and cultural resources. The EIA process also involves consultation with stakeholders, including local communities, environmental organizations, and government agencies, to ensure that their concerns are addressed and that the EIA findings are transparent and credible.

One of the key challenges associated with the EIA for SMRs is the need to balance the benefits of the technology with the environmental concerns. This requires a careful assessment of the risks and benefits of the reactor, as well as the potential mitigation measures that can be implemented to minimize the environmental impacts.

In conclusion, the development and deployment of SMRs present both opportunities and challenges. While these reactors offer a promising solution for generating clean and sustainable energy, they also raise significant environmental concerns. To address these concerns, rigorous EIA processes are required to ensure that the potential environmental impacts of SMRs are properly assessed and managed. By adopting a comprehensive and transparent approach to the EIA process, we can ensure that SMRs are developed and deployed in a manner that is safe, sustainable, and environmentally responsible.

Weight: 148g
Dimension: 210 x 296 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789201084200