Radioactivity Collaboration Information centre Waste management ONDRAF/NIRAS
 
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What is radioactive waste?
Most radioactive waste is very similar to domestic and industrial waste. But with one big difference: radioactive waste contains substances that emit ionizing radiation. This radiation can be dangerous for people and the environment.

Where does radioactive waste come from?
Radioactive waste originates from very diverse sources. The properties of radioactivity and of ionizing radiation are in fact useful in many different applications. Each of these activities generates a certain amount of radioactive waste.

What are the types of radioactive waste?
Radioactive waste is divided into different categories. This classification is important for the processing of the waste and for its long-term management.