Geoscientist Online

Professor Bruce Yardley (University of Leeds) has been appointed to the new role of Chief Geologist by The Radioactive Waste Management Directorate (RWMD) of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).

He will advise RWMD and its stakeholders on all Earth-science aspects of geological disposal.  The appointment is part-time, and will run concurrently with his work as professor in the School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds.

RWMD Managing Director Bruce McKirdy told Geoscientist:  “Professor Yardley has a long standing interest in issues associated with the disposal of radioactive waste.  He is recognised internationally for his work in geology and geochemistry and his experience will help us to further develop and explain our plans.

Bruce Yardley said: “Geological disposal is the only internationally recognised permanent solution for dealing with higher activity radioactive waste safely and securely.  It is vital that as a country we take responsibility for this legacy waste and focus on finding suitable sites for its long term disposal.  I am confident that we have sites in the UK where our geology will effectively isolate our waste, to help safeguard the future for countless generations to come.”

Edmund Nickless, Executive Secretary of the Geological Society, said: “I welcome the appointment of Professor Yardley as Chief Geologist to the NDA-RWMD. Through his work in academia and as a Chartered Geologist, Bruce brings together research and industry perspectives on the geoscience relevant to radioactive waste management. He has made a considerable contribution to the geological life of this country, having been a Council Member and Science Secretary of the Geological Society and recipient of our 2009 Coke Medal. I am sure he will be an equally invaluable source of experience and expertise at the NDA-RWMD. The creation of the new role of Chief Geologist is a significant step forward as the organisation seeks to develop further its geoscience science capability.”