Radioactive Waste Dump Approved Near Ottawa

By Isaac White

In a move that has sparked widespread opposition and controversy, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has approved the construction of a radioactive waste dump near the Ottawa River, upstream from Ottawa and Montreal. The project, spearheaded by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), aims to establish a “near surface disposal facility” close to the company’s Chalk River site, approximately 190 kilometers northwest of Ottawa and a mere kilometer from the river.

This facility is designed to contain low-level radioactive waste, including contaminated soil, building materials from decommissioned Chalk River activities, mops, protective clothing used during cleanup, and waste from sources such as hospitals and universities. Despite CNSC’s assertion in its January 8 decision that the project “is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects” and claims of adequate consultation with Indigenous groups, the plan has been met with significant backlash.

The Ottawa area, recognized as unceded Algonquin territory, has seen leaders from 10 of the 11 federally recognized Algonquin communities vocally oppose the project. Their concerns revolve around potential contamination, the impact on sacred sites, and perceived bias in the commission favoring the industry. The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan stand as the sole community providing consent, having announced a formal partnership with CNL last year.

Researchers from the Canadian Museum of Nature have raised alarms about the possible ecological impact of the facility. They highlight the unique biodiversity of the Ottawa River, home to endangered species like the Hickorynut mussel, thriving in the river’s cave network. Concerns extend to the river’s sturgeon population, currently under study by biologists from various Canadian environmental agencies.

Criticism of the project also comes from a consortium led by SNC-Lavalin, proposing a similar waste site just a kilometer from the river. Additionally, Montreal-area mayors, representing millions relying on the Ottawa River for drinking water, have panned the CNSC plan. They liken the proposal to “building an outhouse next to a drinking well,” underscoring the need for special protection of the river segment housing endangered species like the hickorynut and sturgeon.

Despite these concerns, CNSC authorized the NSDF project in Chalk River on January 9, drawing strong opposition from affected communities, especially Anishinabeg First Nations.

Chief Lance Haymond of Kebaowek emphatically states, “The Commission’s decision is unacceptable, notably because it goes against the rights of Indigenous peoples and environmental protection. The Canadian government must act promptly and immediately assert the suspension of the project. The Commission’s final decision is completely unfounded in concluding the NSDF project will not cause significant environmental effects. While the decision states that CNL will take appropriate measures to safeguard the environment, the health, safety of individuals, and national security and to comply with national obligations, it is undeniable that the safety and health of people and the environment will be profoundly impacted for generations to come through this project.”

Environmental risks associated with the NSDF include the release of radioactive and hazardous materials into the nearby wetland and the Ottawa River, both during operation and after closure. The facility’s proximity to sacred Algonquin sites, including Oiseau Rock and Baptism Point, adds to the cultural and environmental concerns.

The Assembly of First Nations, Anishinabek Nation, and Iroquois caucus have collectively criticized the project. Their joint statement emphasizes the necessity of protecting natural resources for future generations and calls for an end to the practice of disposing of radioactive waste near major waterways.

Over 140 municipalities in Quebec and Ontario, including Gatineau and Montreal, along with several civil organizations, have voiced their opposition. In 2021, Ottawa City Council passed a resolution expressing concern over the project.

Kebaowek First Nation continues to advocate for the protection of Indigenous rights and the environment, seeking collaboration with the government and stakeholders for a more inclusive approach. However, their trust in CNSC and its adherence to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) remains deeply shaken. Chief Haymond further asserts, “I want to be very clear: the Algonquin Peoples did not consent to the construction of this radioactive waste dump on our unceded territory. We believe the consultation was inadequate, to say the least, and that our Indigenous rights are threatened by this proposal. We demand the cancellation of the NSDF project. The focus should instead be on a real and successful cleanup of the site to permanently eliminate old radioactive waste.”

The controversial decision to greenlight the NSDF project at Chalk River stands at a critical juncture, juxtaposing governmental and industrial objectives against Indigenous rights, environmental concerns, and public health. As opposition mounts, the future of this project remains uncertain, under the scrutiny of a diverse coalition advocating for the preservation of natural and cultural heritage.