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Radioactive waste

Definition:

Any waste that emits energy as rays, waves, streams or energetic particles.

Radioactive materials are often mixed with hazardous waste, from nuclear reactors, research institutions, or hospitals.

Source: US EPA Terms of Environment 

More:

Radioactive wastes are generally classified into two categories: high and low level wastes.

High-Level Radioactive Waste (HLRW) refers to most of the waste generated in nuclear reactors. It is a serious threat to anyone who comes near the waste without shielding.

Low-Level Radioactive Waste (LLRW) refers to the less hazardous waste generated by hospitals, research laboratories, and certain industries.

Source: GreenFacts, based on US EPA Terms of Environment 

Related words:

Radiation - Radioactivity

To read about this term in context:

GreenFacts Summary on the Chernobyl Nuclear Accident:

Translation(s):

Español: Residuo radiactivo
Français: Déchet radioactif

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