William Tucker in "Terrestrial Energy" (a pro nuclear energy book) says that France has minimal waste to deal with because of reprocessing, and that there are valuable materials in nuclear waste for medical and industrial uses. I am not proposing going to nuclear energy, but I'm concerned that banning reprocessing might be like banning the use of stem cells - a move based on other than scientific grounds. I would like to hear more info from scientists in the related fields before supporting that. The other principles do sound like common sense.

The Physicians for Social Responsibility have asked WVEC to endorse the attached Principles. Based on my review, these are such common sense that it makes me wonder why they are not already the rule, but I suspect that the parts about community involvement and independent monitoring have raised alarm at DOE.

From: mpinnell@psr.org
To: dsgjr@aol.com
Sent: 1/11/2010 2:03:56 P.M. Eastern Standard Time
Subj: Principles for Safeguarding Nuclear Waste at Reactors

Gary Zuckett suggested I contact you. We at PSR are working on issuing a policy statement on safeguarding nuclear waste at reactor sites in the next few weeks and are really hoping to get at least 1 group from all 50 states on board with our position. Attached you will find the Principles for Safeguarding Nuclear Waste at Reactors. We are really hoping to get at least 1 group from all 50 states on board with our position, and right now we don’t have a representative for West Virginia. The Obama administration has stated, in its opposition to Yucca Mountain, that it will be reevaluating nuclear waste policy in the U.S. so it is a critical time to make a statement in support of safe and sane waste management practices. It would be fantastic if West Virginia Environmental Council could sign on and if you would like to forward this statement to other groups you work with, that would be great too. We’re hoping to issue these to the public next week, so the sooner you can reply, the better.

Morgan Pinnell

Safe Energy Program Coordinator

Physicians for Social Responsibility

Phone: 202-587-5232

Email: mpinnell@psr.org