Interregional Training Course on Environmental Protection Considerations for Embarking Countries

Purpose

The purpose of the event is to train participants, from countries considering a new or expanding an existing nuclear power programme, to invite bids or negotiate a contract for a nuclear power plant (NPP), with an understanding of and updated guidance and international experience related to environmental protection for NPP projects, including environmental impact assessment studies.

Scope and Nature

The training course is planned for five days and will include presentations, interactive activities, a technical tour and peer-to-peer information exchange. International experts as well as IAEA staff will present and share their experience, highlighting common challenges and good practices.

Expected Outputs

The expected outputs of the training course are improved knowledge and understanding of the following areas within the context of the IAEA Milestones Approach to developing a national infrastructure for nuclear power:

• IAEA Milestones approach the 19 nuclear infrastructure issues;
• Environmental impact assessment process and procedures;
• Environmental specialist studies required by legislation or international best practices;
• Interface between radiological and non-radiological assessments;
• Interface between environmental impact assessment studies and siting and site evaluation studies;
• Interface with the assessments of the impact of increased infrastructure requirements (e.g., additional or upgraded roads, sewage works, additional housing);
• Stakeholder involvement and public communication during the environmental impact assessment;
• Associated social infrastructure development requirements and community acceptance; and
• Challenges and lessons learned in developing sentimental protection infrastructure.

The training course will provide participants the opportunity to be involved in roundtable sessions and interactives exercises to discuss common challenges and lessons learned. It is expected to foster enhanced networking between Member States embarking on new nuclear power programmes.

The event includes a technical tour to the Byron Nuclear Power Plant.