Surface Disposal Facilities
Surface disposal has played a central role in France's radioactive waste management strategy for more than fifty years. Drawing on decades of operational experience, France has developed dedicated disposal facilities adapted to different categories of radioactive waste, from Very Low-Level Waste (VLLW) to Low- and Intermediate-Level Short-Lived Waste (LILW-SL).
France's First Disposal Facility
Opened in 1969, the Manche Disposal Facility (CSM) received Low- and Intermediate-Level Waste for more than 25 years. Today, the facility is in its closure phase and subject to long-term monitoring.
Operating Surface Disposal Facilities
Building on decades of experience in radioactive waste management, including the operation of the Manche Disposal Facility (CSM), France currently operates two surface disposal facilities. Cires is dedicated to Very Low-Level Waste (VLLW), while the CSA receives Low- and Intermediate-Level Short-Lived Waste (LILW-SL).