German delegation BASE visits SCK CEN for interdisciplinary consultation on radioactive waste management
This week, SCK CEN received a delegation from BASE Germany, the German federal agency for safe radioactive waste management. From BASE, we welcomed a group of social scientists and the general management. This visit is part of a broader exchange of knowledge and expertise between Belgium and Germany on radioactive waste management and was an initiative of our Science, Technology and Society (STS) expert group.
A rich dialogue on waste management
This visit focused on the exchange between the Belgian and German programmes. Technical and social scientists within SCK CEN, and policy officers from ONDRAF/NIRAS entered into a dialogue with both social scientists and the general management of BASE.
There was also time to deepen the social sciences component, focusing on thematic exchanges between social scientists. This included topics such as participatory processes, survey methodology, interdisciplinary cooperation, and ongoing European initiatives. These sessions provided a unique opportunity to share experiences and best practices and build on each other's insights. The social science departments of BASE and SCK CEN will work together more often in the future.
1+1=3: the power of interdisciplinary work
Cooperation between experts in waste management and social sciences enriches policies and strategies on radioactive waste management. This is evidenced by, among others, Belgian projects such as the SCK CEN Barometer and the work within the ASOF project, where the combination of technical and social expertise leads to better solutions.
BASE's visit underlines the international recognition of the social scientific expertise within SCK CEN and illustrates how knowledge exchange is not only mutually enriching, but also opens up new opportunities for cooperation. This partnership proves that 1+1 is more than 2: together we build on shared insights and experiences.
The how and why of social sciences in nuclear issues
This visit highlights the importance of interdisciplinary work and the added value of social sciences within nuclear research. It also highlights SCK CEN's expertise and shows that we look beyond our own organisation. International collaborations, such as with BASE Germany, are crucial for developing sustainable and innovative solutions for the future of radioactive waste management.
Want to learn more about STS' expertise and how they can contribute to making 1 + 1 more than 2? Check out this expertise page.
