Attorney Generals Office celebrates historic milestone in Hanford nuclear cleanup

The U. S. Department of Energy has finally begun converting hazardous radioactive waste at the Hanford nuclear reservation into glass, a process known as vitrification, marking a historic milestone for Washington state's nuclear cleanup efforts. This achievement results from decades of advocacy by state leaders, including multiple Attorneys General, who have worked tirelessly to hold the federal government accountable for cleanup obligations. "This moment would not have been possible without many leaders in Washington state history," said Attorney General Nick Brown.

Vitrification operations will continue to ramp up, with full-scale operations expected to start in 2033. The state's legal interventions date back to 1989, when the initial Tri-Party Agreement was negotiated, setting the groundwork for future waste treatment facilities. The federal government missed its original deadline for the plant's opening, prompting further negotiations and legal actions to ensure compliance with cleanup timelines. U. S.

Sen. Patty Murray played a crucial role in maintaining momentum, especially during critical negotiations. Treating all of Hanford’s tank waste will require ongoing federal commitment over the coming decades, ensuring the safety of Washington residents and the environment.