GIS-Based sensitivity analysis in site selection procedures for the disposal of hazardous wastes

Abstract

Between 1999 and 2002, a multi-scientific working group on behalf of the German Federal Ministry of Environment was under way to determine scientifically founded criteria for a selection and rating procedure for the permanent disposal of radioactive wastes. The Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) accompanied this process by developing a criteria-oriented Geographical Information System (GIS/FIS), titled "Geosciences and disposal of wastes (GEA)”. In FIS GEA, 28 crystalline occurrences in Germany were exemplarily chosen for implementing the selected geo-scientific and socio-economic criteria for a future site selection and rating procedure. Currently, 17 crystalline occurrences have been evaluated and analysed. The results of the rating and weighting procedures implemented in a Point-Count-System (PCS) and its sensitivity analysis will be presented. The FIS GEA-application supports national or local authorities in their assessment of criteria-relevant information for a future site selection and rating procedure.