Finland approves world's first underground repository for nuclear waste

Finland has approved the operation of the world's first final repository for spent nuclear fuel.

As the waste disposal company Posiva explained on Thursday, the warehouse in the municipality of Eurajoki in southwest Finland will soon start operations, but an exact date has not yet been set.

Construction of the underground camp called “Onkalo” – Finnish for cave – began 22 years ago.

Posiva managing director Ilkka Poikolainen spoke of a “great and historic day for both Posiva and Finland”.

Before final storage begins, Posiva will carry out the necessary tests and inspections, which must also be reviewed and approved by the Finnish Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Authority, the company said.