Workshop on aspects of biosphere modelling within the context of deep geological repositories

During a joint project-workshop, members of the international BIOPROTA Forum and members of the IAEA MODARIA II Working Group 6 discussed methods for biosphere modelling within the context of deep geological repositories. The workshop took place from 10 – 12 May 2017 at the Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate (ENSI) in Brugg.

At the workshop, specialists presented the progress in the BIOPROTA project and discussed it with the participants of Working Group 6. Since 2016 the BIOPROTA Forum has also addressed BIOMASS methodology. Based on new knowledge, experience and developments, this methodology should be verified and improved by the end of 2017.

Taking part in the workshop were members of the BIOPROTA Forum, of which ENSI is a member, as well as members of the MODARIA II Working Group 6 of the International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA. Both teams aim to improve the BIOMASS methodology. The objective of the joint workshop was to pass-on knowledge, group together synergies and avoid duplicated efforts.

Members of the international BIOPROTA Forum and members of the IAEA MODARIA discussed methods for biosphere modelling

Biosphere modelling as an important element of safety analyses

In 2003, within the context of the Biomass Project (BIOsphere Modelling and ASSessmen) the International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA published a report about reference biospheres as an element of safety analyses within the context of deep geological repositories. The methodology developed within the scope of the BIOMASS project, represents a basis for biosphere modelling within the context of long-term safety analyses of deep geological repositories.

About the international BIOPROTA Forum

BIOPROTA is an international forum that is concerned with processes causing the release of radionuclides from a store for radioactive waste into the biosphere. It provides an international forum for the exchange of knowledge and experience, and also provides synergies in the consideration of biosphere aspects within the context of safety analyses for deep geological repositories.

The forum meets once a year to discuss the results of current research and define future research priorities. In addition, workshops on specific focus areas take place.

ENSI has been a member of BIOPROTA since 2012. This membership is useful in expanding ENSI’s competence in the area of biosphere modelling.