Issues in the disposal of waste containing naturally occurring radioactive material

This article considers a number of key issues in the disposal of waste containing enhanced levels of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM), including gaseous, liquid and solid media. A brief review is made of sources of natural radioactivity in the biosphere and of anthropogenic enhancement of the concentration of NORM in the various media. The factors controlling the mobility of radionuclide activity in the environment are examined and disposal options are considered, comparison also being made with disposal of nuclear fuel cycle materials, in particular the tailings of uranium mining. Current and proposed disposal and policies for NORM are cited, reference being made to experiences in a number of countries.