Russian ecologists favour import of radioactive waste

Representatives of all-Russian non-government environmental organizations have called on Russia’ State Duma (lower house) and the Federation Council (upper house) to adopt amendments to the bills “Of environmental protection” and “Of a use of nuclear energy” related to the import to Russia of nuclear waste. Among those ecologists are Director of the Russian Ecological Congress V. Pimenov and Deputy Chairman of the “Cedar” Constructive Ecological Association A. Safonov, according to RIA Novosti. The ecologists’ plea comes pending the 2nd reading for the proposed amendments (the 1st reading was supported by the overwhelming majority of the deputies). The amendments’ supporters assert the country will be able to get nearly $20bn within the nearest 20 years, if the amendments are adopted. The ecologists’ appeal comes amid backing from the country’s prominent scientists who contend the country can ensure safe processing of the waste. Their confidence is bolstered by one of the terms of the import – the imported waste is supposed to be returned after processing.