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Reprocessing spent nuclear fuel involves using a chemical process to separate out plutonium and fissionable uranium from spent fuel rods. This process can reduce the volume of waste material. However, the byproduct of reprocessing is high-level waste, which still requires proper disposal.

Transmutation refers to a technology that involves reprocessing spent nuclear fuel then changing the radioactive elements into generally shorter-lived substances. If developed, this technology could reduce the amount of time that some of the elements in spent fuel would remain radioactive.

Global Nuclear Energy Partnership

As part of President Bush's Advanced Energy Initiative,
the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP) seeks to develop worldwide consensus on enabling expanded use of economical, carbon-free nuclear energy to meet growing electricity demand.

This will use a nuclear fuel cycle that enhances energy security, while promoting non-proliferation. It would achieve its goal by having nations with secure, advanced nuclear capabilities provide fuel services — fresh fuel and recovery of used fuel — to other nations who agree to employ nuclear energy for power generation purposes only.

The closed fuel cycle model envisioned by this partnership requires development and deployment of technologies that enable recycling and consumption of long-lived radioactive waste.

GNEP, reprocessing, or transmutation would not eliminate the need for a repository. The waste products from reprocessing would still require disposal. The advantage is a reduction in the amount of waste.

• Global Nuclear Energy Partnership
• Transmutation Research at Los Alamos National Laboratory