UK Ships Nuclear Waste to Germany on March 26, 2025 Fulfilling International Agreements

On March 26, 2025, the UK commenced the second of three planned shipments of high-level nuclear waste to Germany. The waste, in the form of vitrified residues, was transported from Sellafield to Barrow-in-Furness by rail and then loaded onto the Pacific Grebe for transport to a German port. From there, it will be moved by rail to the Isar interim storage facility. This shipment fulfills the UK's commitment to repatriate high-level waste resulting from the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel originally used by German utilities. The Vitrified Residue Returns (VRR) are a key part of the UK's strategy to manage waste and meet international obligations. This operation is conducted in compliance with all national and international regulations. Key aspects to watch include the safe arrival of the vessel in Germany and the subsequent transport of the waste to the Isar facility. This event underscores the ongoing international cooperation in managing nuclear waste and fulfilling contractual obligations.