Research RTD, 7th Euratom Framework Programme 2007-2011: specific programme through direct actions by the Joint Research Centre JRC
PURPOSE: to adopt a Specific Programme for direct Nuclear research and training activities to be carried out by the Joint Research Centre (JRC) under the 7th Euratom Framework Programme
LEGISLATIVE ACT: Council Decision 2006/977/Euratom concerning the Specific Programme to be carried out by means of direct actions by the Joint Research Centre implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) for nuclear research and training activities (2007 – 2011).
CONTENT: the adoption of a Specific Programme for the direct nuclear research and training to be carried out by the JRC stems from Council Decision 2006/970/Euratom concerning the Seventh Framework Programme (2007-2011). See: CNS/2005/0044.
Two Specific Programmes were approved by the 7th Framework Programme of the European Atomic Community (Euratom). The first, the subject of thus summary, concerns “direct” research activities of the Joint Research Centre relating to nuclear energy. The second, concerns “indirect” actions on fusion energy research, nuclear fission and radiation protection. See CNS/2005/0190.
The stated objective of this JRC Specific Programme in the field of nuclear energy is to provide scientific and technical support to the European Union for the preparation and enactment of its energy policies. The work of the JRC will help secure the effective implementation of the Community’s energy policies by guaranteeing the EU institutions a scientific back-up for its energy strategy as well as offering an extensive monitoring system of existing policies. The JRC is committed to undertaking high quality research activities in close contact with industry and other bodies and to develop networks with public and private institutions in the Member States. Other JRC activities include offering advice and support to both the Commission and the Member States on nuclear safeguards, nuclear non-proliferation, and waste management, the safety of nuclear installations and fuel cycle analysis, environmental radioactivity and radiation protection issues. The Programme has been awarded a EUR 517 million budget to help realise these objectives.
The Specific Programme is characterised by three activities:
1) Nuclear Waste Management, environmental impact: Under this heading the following topics will be given priority research: spent fuel characterisation, storage and disposal; partitioning, transmutation and conditioning; basic actinide research; nuclear data; medical applications from nuclear research; measurement of radioactivity in the environment; and knowledge management, training and education.
2) Nuclear Safety: Under this heading the JRC will be expected to focus on the following subjects: nuclear reactor safety; nuclear fuel safety in power reactors operating in the EU; and the safe operation of advanced nuclear energy systems.
3) Nuclear Security: Under this heading the following policies will be prioritised: nuclear safeguards; additional protocol; open source information collection on nuclear non-proliferation; and combating illicit trafficking of nuclear materials, including nuclear forensic analysis:
Lastly, both at the implementation level and the research level, the JRC is committed to respecting fundamental ethical principles based, inter alia, on those reflected in the Charter of Fundamental EU Rights.
ENTRY INTO FORCE: 2 January 2007.