Interaction between site pre-selection of high-level radioactive waste geological disposal repository and mineral resources prospecting

According to incomplete statistics, a total amount of 4488.2 million RMB has been invested in mineral resource prospecting in Beishan Area, Gansu Province between 1999 and 2007, potential value is estimated to be 1.328 billion RMB. Once the Beishan Area is selected as a pre-selected site of HLW repository, possible economic losses will be considerable, and it may also have adverse influence on the land use and economic development in Northwest China. After extensive investigation and research on this issue, forbidden military area for nuclear weapon test is ideal for HLW repository because of suitable rock nature. Also long distance from national boundaries and residential areas can satisfy the safety management requirement of the HLW repository. In consideration China's national conditions, there are several advantages to perform the site pre-selection of national HLW repository in those forbidden military areas for nuclear weapon test site with beneficial geologic and social conditions. Therefore, it is recommended by this article pre-selection of national HLW repository in those areas should be conducted immediately.