The federal government has a significant role in developing overall policy and federal strategy for radioactive waste management. It has jurisdiction over, and regulatory responsibility for, nuclear energy, including radioactive waste. The government also conducts research on radioactive waste and is an owner of some of this waste. 3.2 Radioactive waste management involves the handling and treating of radioactive waste, as well as its transportation, storage and disposal.
Storage involves managing radioactive material in a safe manner with provision for retrieval.
Disposal refers to permanent placement of radioactive waste with no intention of retrieval. 3.3 Federal regulatory policy states that the objectives of radioactive waste disposal are to minimize any burden placed on future generations, to protect the environment and to protect human health. A major research and development program was initiated in 1978 to find a solution for disposal of this waste. Throughout the program, Canada's target dates for having an operational disposal facility have continually been extended, with 2025 being the current target date for such a facility. Moreover, Canada's program has not kept pace with some other countries.