Australia’s centre of nuclear expertise, ANSTO, has welcomed outcomes from the Washington Nuclear Security Summit and recognition of the leadership role ANSTO has played in non-proliferation goals.
Speaking from Washington, ANSTO’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Adi Paterson, said he strongly supported moves endorsed by the Summit to secure vulnerable nuclear materials around the globe.
“Australia and ANSTO have been leaders in improving nuclear security. ANSTO has led by example by replacing all high-enriched uranium with low-enriched uranium in the OPAL reactor fuel and also in medical isotope production.
“The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regularly inspects ANSTO’s Lucas Heights facilities and holds its security measures up as examples of good practice.
“ANSTO was also one of the first research and technology organisations to join the newly-established World Institute of Nuclear Security.
“Many global nuclear organisations have visited ANSTO to draw upon our experience in advancing non-proliferation in reactor design, isotope production and nuclear material management.
“ANSTO is engaged in the South East Asian and Pacific region demonstrating good practice in secure management of radioactive sources.
“ANSTO will continue to actively support global moves to improve nuclear security and is pleased that its efforts have been positively recognised,” Dr Paterson concluded.
Published: 15/04/2010