History and Current Status of Russia’s Radioactive Waste Dumping (2020s)

History and Current Status of Russia's Radioactive Waste Dumping (2020s)

### 1. Historical Background
Since the Soviet era, Russia has dumped radioactive waste in the Barents and Kara Seas in the Arctic region. Between the late 1960s and the late 1980s, approximately 18,000 pieces of radioactive waste were disposed of in these waters, including nuclear submarines such as the K-27 and K-159. The K-27 was intentionally discarded in 1982, while the K-159 sank during towing operations in 2003. The K-27 lies in shallow waters at 33 meters, and the K-159 rests at a depth of 200 meters, both posing environmental risks.

At the time, waste disposal was driven by the "out of sight, out of mind" philosophy, with little concern for environmental consequences. Although the London Convention banned marine dumping of radioactive waste in 1993, additional reactors were dumped until 1994, some containing spent nuclear fuel.

### 2. Current Efforts in the 2020s
Recently, Russia has initiated efforts to remove these hazardous wastes. The project, led by Rosatom, aims to lift six major radioactive objects over the next eight years. The estimated total cost of removal is 278 million euros (approximately 45 billion yen), with 57.5 million euros required to lift the K-159.

Norway has contributed 150 million euros to nuclear safety projects in the Barents region, supporting the cleanup efforts. However, the operation is technically challenging and carries a risk of radiation leaks, requiring careful execution. The K-27 has been described as a "radioactive time bomb," emphasizing the need for urgent action.

### 3. Future Challenges
This issue poses long-term risks to the Arctic's ecosystem and fisheries, highlighting the need for international cooperation. Russia's leadership in this project, in collaboration with global partners, is expected to serve as a model for environmental protection in the Arctic region.