Public opinion survey

Public opinion survey

In 2007, RAWRA carried out an extensive public opinion survey, in cooperation with the Centre for Public Opinion Polls, at those sites considered potentially suitable for the siting of a deep geological repository.
The aim of the survey was to provide, firstly, an analysis of public attitudes at those sites considered potentially suitable for the construction of a radioactive waste repository, secondly, a comparison of those attitudes with the opinions of those living in regions in which it is not envisaged a repository will be built and, thirdly, a comparison with the attitudes of Czech people in general.
The main outcomes were as follows:
The current generation should provide a solution to the radioactive waste management problem.
General disagreement with the construction of a repository in one’s local neighbourhood.
Those living in "suitable" locations have a significantly better level of knowledge on the subject than the general Czech population.
Differences exist from site to site: differing levels of public debate, local elected council attitudes, personal initiatives and knowledge levels.
Decisions regarding a repository should be made together by experts and local inhabitants.
"Compensation" and incentives are necessary together with strict rules governing their utilisation.
The discussion arena is insufficient.

Public involvement is low: active involvement amounts to approximately 6% of the population at the locations.