PNNL

Abstract

Seversk and Zheleznogorsk, two Russian closed nuclear cities, are home to the last three operating plutonium production reactors in Russia. The reactors are now scheduled for shutdown. Closing these reactors presents the world community with a significant nonproliferation achievement, but at the same time poses environmental, economic, and security challenges for the local communities. This conference is an opportunity for the international community to provide crucial support to facilitate these aspects of the plutonium reactor shutdown. Projects proposed complement the reactor shutdown process or assist with worker transition from plutonium production to nonweapons-related careers. Switzerland graciously offered to host the conference with the participation of both the Federal Atomic Energy Agency, Russian Federation and the United States Department of Energy. The one-and-a-half day event was held in Spiez, Switzerland, 8–9 February 2005. Dr. Alec Baer of Switzerland moderated the conference.