HARPERS concludes, SCK CEN helps lead the way
HARPERS Project: Pioneering Harmonisation in Nuclear Waste Management and Decommissioning
The HARPERS project, which stands for HARmonised PracticEs, Regulations and Standards in waste management and decommissioning of nuclear facilities, has been a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing collaboration and harmonising regulations across European countries. Launched in June 2022 with SCK CEN and IFE as project coordinator, the project is now reaching its conclusion, with its final event scheduled for June 17-18, 2025, in Slovakia. This event will also be accessible online, making it easier for stakeholders across Europe to participate.
As the HARPERS project draws to a close, European policymakers and stakeholders are invited to sign up for the final event. This event will present the project's findings and recommendations, offering concrete conclusions that are highly relevant to the work of policymakers. It is an opportunity to learn from the project's successes and to discuss the future of harmonised nuclear waste management and decommissioning in Europe.
The event not only offers a clear overview of lessons learned and achieved results, but also a unique opportunity to engage in dialogue on the next steps towards a harmonised European approach. Your participation will help shape future-proof and effective policy in this crucial sector.
How can we unit policy, practice, and innovation in radioactive waste management across Europe?
Join the HARPERS consortium to discuss online or in Slovakia at the HARPERS final event
Objectives and achievements
The primary goal of the HARPERS project has been to demonstrate the benefits of better cooperation and harmonised regulations and best practices in the safe decommissioning of end-of-life nuclear power plants, the management of radioactive waste, and the shared use of processing and storage facilities for this waste. The project has also explored the integration of advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning, as well as principles of the circular economy.
Key achievements of the HARPERS project include:
- Identification of regulatory barriers: The project identified several regulatory hurdles that impede cross-border collaboration, the implementation of circular economy principles and the use of advanced technologies. These include differences in national legislation and interpretations of EU directives and lack of standardisation in procedures and safety standards
- Promotion of harmonised best practices: By addressing these barriers, HARPERS provides suggestions towards introducing platforms where best practices can be introduced, improving the exchange of expertise between countries. The project proposes a robust evaluation framework that includes measurable criteria to assess the overall benefits of various strategies.
- Stakeholder engagement: The project has actively engaged with a wide range of stakeholders to assess the needs and benefits of harmonisation, ensuring that the proposed solutions are in line with their needs.
Belgian involvement
The HARPERS project was realized by a consortium of 30 partners from 14 countries under the EURATOM research and training programme. SCK CEN has played a pivotal role in the HARPERS project, serving as the project coordinator and contributing significantly to its success. Our experts provided valuable insights on clearance of materials, stakeholder engagement and sustainability assessment of waste management and decommissioning, driving forward the project's objectives. The project was also supported by several colleagues from BelV, Engie-Laborelec and Tractebel.
Lessons learned in HARPERS - join the final event to find out more!
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Cross-borders operations have a perception of being cumbersome and difficult to get approved. Transporting nuclear materials within the EU is often quite challenging. However, during HARPERS we were able to analyse several case studies and we compared reported issues to European legislation. In fact, there is clear regulation on the European level to organize these transport adequately. However, differences in interpretation and implementation at the national level often hinder a smooth operation.
During HARPERS it became apparent that there is a clear case for strengthening legal and procedural coordination to enable cross-border initiatives. Further alignment could support more cost-effective solutions, while respecting national safety standards and sovereignty.