Morocco showcases its expertise in radioactive waste management

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By: Azzat Manal

Morocco showcases its expertise in radioactive waste management

Morocco has presented its experience in managing radioactive waste at an international nuclear energy forum in Vienna, highlighting the country's efforts to strengthen the safe and responsible use of nuclear technologies in peaceful applications.

The Moroccan initiative was presented during an event organized by Morocco's Permanent Mission in Vienna in cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.S. Department of Energy, Hungary's Izotop and U.S.-based Newave. The event took place on the sidelines of the 70th IAEA General Conference, held in the Austrian capital from September 14 to 18.

Morocco's Permanent Representative in Vienna, Azzeddine Farhane, stressed that the growing use of nuclear technologies in areas such as healthcare, industry and agriculture requires robust systems to safely manage the radioactive materials and waste generated by these activities.

He said Morocco's experience is based on an integrated approach combining specialized infrastructure, national expertise and international cooperation. Rabat has also expressed its willingness to share its technical experience with other African countries through South-South cooperation, with the aim of supporting the safe and sustainable development of peaceful nuclear applications across the continent.

Hamid Merah, Director General of Morocco's National Center for Nuclear Energy, Sciences and Technology, outlined the technical foundations of the country's radioactive waste management system. These include specialized facilities covering the different stages of the process, from collection and treatment to conditioning and secure storage.

Particular attention was given to Morocco's experience in recovering, transporting and handling high-activity sealed radioactive sources that are no longer in use. Such operations require strict technical procedures and compliance with international safety and security standards.

Radioactive waste management has become increasingly important as nuclear technologies expand beyond energy production into medical diagnosis and treatment, industrial applications, scientific research and agriculture. Effective management systems are essential to protect workers, communities and the environment while allowing countries to benefit from peaceful nuclear technologies.

By presenting its experience in Vienna, Morocco is seeking to position its national expertise within broader international cooperation efforts and to contribute to the development of nuclear safety and radioactive waste management capacities, particularly in Africa.