Gaining social licence for the development of sustainable solutions for radioactive waste remains an elusive challenge worldwide.
In Canada, agreements were recently formalised with the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and the town of Ignace for the development of a deep geological repository (DGR) for radioactive waste. This landmark achievement prepares the way for Canada’s first DGR.
As the developer and operator of Australia’s first and only national low-level radioactive waste disposal facility, Sandy Ridge, built on the foundation of our Native Title agreement with the Marlinyu Ghoorlie, Tellus has much to share. But we are keen to continue our learning journey too.
That’s why we are proud to announce a new international partnership with the agency that led to Canada’s milestone, the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO). The NWMO is a global leader in the safe, long-term management of radioactive waste.
Collaborating to safeguard future generations
This collaboration brings together two organisations committed to protecting people and the planet through science-backed solutions, meaningful community engagement, and Indigenous partnership.
Key outcomes of the agreement include:
– Sharing technical expertise and regulatory insights
– Deepening community engagement, including connections between the Marlinyu Ghoorlie people (WA) and Canadian First Nations
– Staff exchanges to strengthen operational knowledge and stakeholder relationships
“This partnership unites two global leaders in safe, community-backed waste solutions,” said Tellus CEO Nate Smith.
“Just as NWMO has set a benchmark in Canada with Indigenous collaboration, Tellus’ Sandy Ridge Facility demonstrates how to align Native Title, science, and sustainability.”
We’re looking forward to working together with the NWMO to raise the bar for environmental and social stewardship globally, and build a safer, cleaner future for generations to come.
About Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation
Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation (WLON) is a proud, progressive and resilient Indigenous nation on the shores of what is now called Dinorwic Lake west of Dryden, Ontario with strong roots in our Anishinaabe culture and the history of our people. With approximately 740 members, we have survived colonialism and attempted acculturation by Canada, the residential schools, the flooding of our lake and the destruction of our natural environment, the sixties scoop of our young people and many other hardships to emerge as a vibrant nation with strong roots in our culture and a diversified modern economy.
Learn more about the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway nation here