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Underground storage in bedrock – the Swedish solution for mercury waste. Björn Södermark Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. Terminal storage in bedrock is the best solution. Rely on the capabilities of nature to withstand its own forces and those of man
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Underground storage in bedrock – the Swedish solution for mercury waste Björn Södermark Swedish Environmental Protection Agency
Terminal storage in bedrock is the best solution • Rely on the capabilities of nature to withstand its own forces and those of man • Supplement with technical measures
Fundamental properties of the surrounding bedrock Prevention and remediation: • A stable physical and chemical environment and low groundwater flows • Long transport paths; high capacity for sorption, matrix diffusion and dilution No supervision and maintenance needed
Recommendations • Waste containing more than 1 per cent mercury should be terminally stored in bedrock • The mercury in the waste should be extracted and converted to an insoluble form • The storage facility should be located at least 400 m below ground in granite bedrock, preferably adjacent to an existing mine • The waste owners have the responsibility for building and running a storage facility