Investigation Reveals Damaged Radioactive Waste Barrels in the Atlantic

An international research expedition has uncovered concerning evidence of damaged barrels containing radioactive waste, disposed of decades ago in the North East Atlantic. Utilizing advanced submersible technology, the team has provided insights into the current state of these containers, revealing that some have started to deteriorate, with unknown substances likely leaking from them.

The study conducted by the French research organization CNRS and the NODSSUM (Nuclear Ocean Dump Site Survey Monitoring) project identified approximately 3,350 barrels spread across a 163 square kilometer area. A remotely operated underwater vehicle named Ulyx was employed to capture 3D images and utilize sonar technology to locate these barrels effectively.

Initial assessments indicate that while many barrels are exhibiting signs of rust and biological colonization, the overall condition varies significantly between intact, deformed, and ruptured containers. Although no elevated radiation levels were detected during the expedition, further laboratory analysis of water, sediment, and marine life is necessary and may take several months.

Previously, between the 1950s and 1980s, numerous countries disposed of nuclear waste in the ocean, with estimates suggesting that around 200,000 barrels are located in the North East Atlantic, resting at depths of 3,000 to 5,000 meters. This recent expedition, lasting four weeks aboard the research vessel L'Atalante, aimed to explore the distribution and ecological impact of these buried wastes, particularly in areas believed to contain a substantial portion of the discarded materials.

Project leader Patrick Chardon expressed that the radioactivity of most nuclear waste in the North Atlantic is likely to diminish significantly over the course of 300 to 400 years. However, he noted that the barrels were designed to withstand the immense pressure at these depths but were not intended to be completely leak-proof, raising concerns that radioactive materials may have already begun to escape.

As this investigation continues, it raises critical questions about the long-term environmental impact of nuclear waste disposal practices and the potential risks posed to marine ecosystems. The scientific community emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and assessment of these sites to ensure the safety and health of oceanic environments.