Definition and Principles

Uranium stewardship can be defined as a shared programme of action to enable uranium products to be produced, used and disposed of in a safe, sustainable and acceptable manner. This means that the full life cycle of uranium, from cradle-to-grave, is key to establishing leading industry practice in such sectors of uranium mining as health, safety and the environment. The “social aspects” such as promoting minimal waste and encouraging recycling are also areas of attention under Uranium Stewardship.

Continuous striving is part of the process which leads toward industry best practice and ethical conduct which in turn underpins the concept of Uranium Stewardship. In the nuclear sector the full cross-section of activity from mining through to waste disposal and from the production of medical applications to the operation of nuclear power stations is part of the package toward achieving Uranium Stewardship best practices.

A crucial aspect of Uranium Stewardship is also the engagement of, and participation by, civil society in the unfolding processes. The intention is to act out the concept of transparency, or ‘walk the talk’ by engaging the public in dialogue, and providing them with regular updates, to gain trust for the global nuclear fuel cycle. Stakeholder participation is an important part of the establishment of best practice.

Principles of Uranium Stewardship

”Sustainability must be the guiding principle of global development – requiring worldwide policies that meet the needs and aspirations of the present generation without compromising the opportunity of future generations to fulfil their needs and aspirations”.
World Nuclear Association: Charter of Ethics

The Principles of Uranium Stewardship cascade from the Charter of Ethics of the World Nuclear Association.

Uranium stewardship is a shared responsibility, through all sectors of the nuclear fuel cycle, working together in the spirit of cooperation. Through the Principles, the subscribing members of this sector commit to:

1. Ensure the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology
2. Act responsibly in the areas that we manage and control
3. Operate ethically with sound corporate governance
4. Uphold fundamental human rights
5. Contribute to social and economic development of the regions where we operate
6. Provide responsible sourcing, use and disposition of uranium and all its byproducts
7. Encourage best practices and responsible behaviour throughout the nuclear fuel cycle
8. Improve continually in all areas of our performance
9. Communicate regularly progress on the implementation of the Principles
10. Review and update these Principles as necessary