Stakeholder Involvement in Nuclear Issues

Many of the world’s nuclear power plants were constructed long ago without significant public involvement in the associated decision making. It is anticipated, however, that a variety of stakeholders will now seek participation in such decisions as the nuclear option is being revisited in many places. Accidents, notably at Three Mile Island and Chernobyl, have served to arouse public concern. The development of instantaneous media capabilities has created an awareness that may not have previously existed. Improvements in educational systems and the development of the Internet have made technical information and expertise available to individuals and locations that were previously without them. In addition, consideration of the environmental impacts of various energy strategies have moved to the fore. INSAG has concluded that the expectations of stakeholders of a right to participate in energy decisions are something that the nuclear community must address. Decisions regarding such matters as the siting and construction of a nuclear power plant are no longer something that is largely the domain of a closed community of technical experts and utility executives. Today, the concerns and expectations from a wide field of individuals and organizations must be considered. This report is intended for use by all stakeholders in the nuclear community, including national regulatory authorities, nuclear power plant designers and operators, public interest organizations, the media, and local and national populations.