Office of Environmental Management (EM) Assistant Secretary Tim Walsh led a senior-level delegation to France recently to learn more about their nuclear capabilities and strengthen international cooperation. The delegation included Chief Operating Officer David Brunnert, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Joel Bradburne, Deputy Chief of Staff John Howard, along with U.S. Embassy Energy Attaché Kristina Hatcher.

EM leadership visits the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission's Marcoule site for a technical exchange on legacy cleanup strategies.

France, renowned worldwide for its cutting-edge expertise in nuclear reprocessing and vitrification, opened its doors to the American delegation at several premier facilities. The visit underscored the mutual benefits that arise from cross-border collaboration, paving the way for innovative approaches to nuclear waste management.

"France's leadership in used nuclear fuel reprocessing and vitrification gives us valuable insights for our own nuclear initiatives," noted Assistant Secretary Walsh. "By working together, we can apply lessons learned to advance our efforts in EM."

At the Orano La Hague Reprocessing Facility EM leadership discusses shared priorities in fuel treatment and nuclear materials management.

The visit included stops at Orano's acclaimed La Hague Reprocessing Facility, the TN Eagle Cask Manufacturing factory, and Hall Research Beaumont. The group also toured the National Radioactive Waste Management Agency, which steers France's long-term radioactive waste strategies, and concluded at the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission's Marcoule site, showcasing advanced vitrification technologies that could inspire future American projects.

"This cross-border collaboration highlights the U.S. commitment to continue to improve the safe handling of nuclear materials," said Director of Intergovernmental and Stakeholder Programs Joceline Nahigian. "By exchanging lessons learned and expertise, implementing best practices, and embracing innovative technologies, our mission progresses as complex challenges are addressed safely to reduce risks and associated costs."

-Contributor: Leisa Pope