Volume XLVIII, Numbers 3 & 4
The 2020 INMM Annual Meeting Technical Program 4
Annual Meeting: Opening Plenary Session 7
Annual Meeting: Tuesday Plenary Session 21
Annual Meeting: Wednesday Plenary Session 27
Annual Meeting: JNMM Roundtable 34
Annual Meeting: Closing Plenary Session 45 Ph.D. FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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These equal opportunity programs are open to all qualified persons without regard to race, gender, religion, age, physical disability or national origin. JNMM Journal of Nuclear Materials Management
Technical Editor Markku Koskelo Journal of Nuclear Materials Management Assistant Technical Editor Brian Boyer JNMM Associate Editors Sarah Frazar, Education and Training Institute News Alicia Swift, Facilities Operations Irmgard Niemeyer and Carrie Mathews, President’s Message...... 2 International Safeguards Louise Worrall and Rian Bahran, Materials Technical Editor’s Note...... 3 Control and Accountability Leslie Fishbone, Nonproliferation and Arms Control Richard Donovan and Michelle Silva, Annual Meeting Nuclear Security and Physical Protection Edward Ketusky, Packaging, Transportation, and Disposition The 2020 INMM Annual Meeting Technical Program...... 4 Book Review Editor Mark L. Maiello Annual Meeting: Opening Plenary Session...... 7 INMM Executive Committee Susan Pepper, President Annual Meeting: Tuesday Plenary Session...... 21 Mark Schanfein, Vice President Teressa McKinney, Secretary Robert U. Curl, Treasurer Annual Meeting: Wednesday Plenary Session...... 27 Cary Crawford, Immediate Past President Members At Large Annual Meeting: JNMM Roundtable...... 34 James Andre Tina Hernandez Annual Meeting: Closing Plenary Session...... 46 Heidi Smartt Sarah Poe 2020 INMM Awards...... 52
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Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 1 President’s Message
“May You Live in Interesting Times”
Susan Pepper INMM President
I used to think this saying was a wish Lisa Gordon-Hagerty, Deputy Director Roger Howsley Medal for Excellence in for good fortune. It is wonderful to live at General for Safeguards Massimo Aparo, Nuclear Security”—which will honor Roger a time when there is a lot to stimulate our former Assistant Secretary of Energy Dr. Howsley for his work with the World Insti- senses, but 2020 certainly showed us the Rita Baranwal, and former Secretary of tute for Nuclear Security. This award will other, ironic meaning of the saying, which Energy Dr. Ernest Moniz. We also had a be granted jointly by WINS and the INMM, is intended as a curse. The Chinese have special discussion during the “Women of and the first award will be given in 2021. a similar proverb that says, “Better to be a Mass Distinction” event with Ambassador While we are still reporting on the dog in times of tranquility than a human in Bonnie Jenkins—look for the transcript of 2020 Annual Meeting, the Annual Meeting times of chaos.” 2020 has been anything that discussion in an upcoming issue of Committee is already working on the but tranquil, and with it has come threat, the JNMM. program and other details for the 2021 uncertainty, and unease. However, there As is often mentioned, one of the Annual Meeting, which will be held at the have been several silver linings in that most fulfilling responsibilities of the INMM Austria Centre in Vienna, Austria, August people found creative ways to stay in Vice President is to present awards to 22-26, 2021. The call for abstracts was dis- touch during our quarantines, neighbors members of the INMM and our interna- tributed in late December with a deadline helped each other, businesses made inno- tional community to recognize their con- of February 20. The Technical Program vative changes to serve their customers, tributions and achievements. At the 2020 Committee will meet in April to develop scientists rose to the challenge of finding Annual Meeting, I shared that responsi- the technical program. We also plan to a vaccine for COVID-19, and the INMM was bility with then-President Cary Crawford. expand on our effort to increase the diver- forced to consider an alternate means to I want to take this opportunity to recog- sity of participants through a competition delivering the Annual Meeting. We are nize the individuals who were honored for travel and registration grants. Because happy to put 2020 behind us, but 2021 for their service to the Institute and the of the success of the virtual Annual has not yet brought us the tranquility or field of nuclear materials management. Meeting in 2020, the INMM is planning the resumption of activity that we all long Mona Dreicer, Therese Renis, and Kurt a hybrid meeting in 2021, with in-person for. But we have hope that circumstances Siemon received the Vincent J. DeVito and virtual components. A final decision are improving. So, I wish you all the best Distinguished Service Award. Melissa as to whether we can proceed with the in- for this new year. Einwechter was given the Early Career person component will be made in March. This edition of the JNMM includes Award. The Integrated Support Center These are interesting times, indeed. I the speeches delivered and interviews for Nuclear Nonproliferation and Nuclear look forward to working with the Executive conducted during the 2020 INMM Annual Security was awarded the Charles E Pietri Committee, the Technical Divisions, and Meeting. We were very lucky this year to Special Service Award. In addition, Leslie the Committees this year to meet the chal- have a distinguished group of plenary Fishbone and Corey Hinderstein were ele- lenges ahead and to ensure that the INMM speakers, including Ambassador Gustavo vated to the membership grade of Fellow continues to support the nuclear materials Zlauvinen, former National Nuclear of the INMM. For 2021, we look forward management community. Security Administration Administrator to a new award—“The WINS and INMM
2 Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 Technical Editor’s Note
Annual Meeting in an Unusual Format
Markku Koskelo JNMM Technical Editor
This double issue summarizes the All of the Plenary talks and the questions INMM Historian, offers many interesting 61st INMM Annual Meeting that was held associated with them are transcribed in insights on how the pandemic has most virtually last summer. The virtual format this issue. Susan has already listed the likely changed the world permanently, at was necessitated by the ongoing COVID- distinguished speakers in her column so I least for certain things that we have been 19 pandemic, of course. Despite the diffi- will not repeat their names here. accustomed to doing in a particular way. culties posed by the circumstances, and We were also able to arrange the In his book review, Mark Maiello gives the rather short timeline to switch from the traditional JNMM Roundtable to interview an overview of The Senkaku Paradox: traditional in-person meeting to an online two of the Plenary speakers, Ambassador Risking Great Power War Over Small meeting, the Annual Meeting Committee Gustavo Zlauvinen and DDG Massimo Stakes. The book, written by Michael E. and the Technical Program Committee Aparo. The transcript of the Roundtable O’Hanlon, discusses how small events were able to organize a great meeting. includes the questions posed by the INMM may lead to a great conflict and how to We had more attendees in the leadership to the plenary speakers and find alternative ways to prevent such meeting than we have had in the last offers additional, candid insight from them escalation. few years. Please see the summary of for the future of safeguards and global Should you have any comments or the attendance on page 6 of this issue. security. questions, feel free to contact me. The meeting also included a much larger In his column, “Taking the Long View Markku Koskelo number of Plenary speakers than has in a Time of Great Uncertainty,” Jack JNMM Technical Editor been possible in the in-person meetings. Jekowski, Industry News Editor and the
Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 3 ANNUAL MEETING
The 2020 INMM Annual Meeting Technical Program 61st Annual Meeting
Carrie Mathews Chair, Technical Program Committee
In a year marked by isolation and café” was created to facilitate interaction Of the more than 700 attendees, about separation, the INMM Annual Meeting, among participants. half were not INMM members and many with its theme of “Connection and Collab- The entire process was dynamic, were first time attendees. Eighty-one were oration,” was a welcome respite and timely with everyone learning as they went, and students, and 104 were from outside the reminder that we are a resilient community adjusting as information ebbed and flowed. United States. The most well-attended ses- of nuclear materials management profes- Tech checks were scheduled with plenary sions included “Nuclear Security–Looking sionals. The meeting gathered more than speakers, and moderators prepared their Ahead,” “Emerging Technology in Safe- 700 people together for rich discussions scripts to coordinate virtual panels. Every- guards,” “Small Modular Reactors: Chang- and discourse in 75 sessions over 5 days. one learned new audio-visual terminology ing the Game,” “The Nonproliferation Five keynote addresses were delivered in and downloaded new apps like Slack, Regime,” and “Machine Learning and AI for daily plenary sessions on topics ranging Zoom, and Slido. Flexibility, teamwork, and Safeguards and Nuclear Material Accoun- from the nuclear nonproliferation regime faith were needed in equal measure. The tancy.” If you missed some sessions, don’t to advancements in the nuclear fuel cycle, entire AH staff, particularly the Meetings worry–you can purchase packages for and from long-term disposition of spent Chair, Ms. Elizabeth Hogan, went above on-demand viewing at inmm.org, through fuel to strengthening international safe- and beyond to make the meeting happen. July 2021, and the proceedings are avail- guards and nuclear security. Check out The uncertainty surrounding the able for members on the website as well. some of their insightful remarks in sepa- Annual Meeting led to many withdrawals The 2020 Annual Meeting was a rate articles in this issue. of accepted abstracts, from 320 accepted success and the INMM community was Pivoting to a virtual platform just 7 to 242 presented, but a few last-minute grateful to gather together as we have weeks before the meeting started was panel sessions were organized to address done every year since 1959. But we also certainly a challenge. But a small team of timely topics of great interest. One panel learned much that will help us better serve organizers had been meeting every other discussed how organizations—an inspec- our community in future virtual meetings. week starting in late March, gathering torate, a regulator, a production facility, For example, we know that participants information and making decisions that ulti- and a research laboratory—continued prefer to interact with one another via mately led to the announcement on May operating and fulfilled their critical mis- video chat and/or live audio conversa- 21, 2020 that, for the first time ever, the sions during the pandemic. Another tions. Although interaction among par- INMM would be held virtually. INMM part- described response and remediation of ticipants and with speakers was enabled nered with Falcon Events and BlueSky to a Cesium source leak at a medical center. through a Q&A/chat app (Slido) within the create a platform that felt as close to our A special “Women of Mass Distinction” sessions, the platform did not enable live in-person meeting as we could manage. event was organized by INMM Vice Presi- connections. In addition, more time was Presenters were asked to upload their dent Susan Pepper, featuring Ambassador needed in the schedule for breaks and pre-recorded slideshows to create online Bonnie Jenkins who shared the lessons side meetings. The exhibitors’ program for poster and oral sessions. Panelists were and insights she’s gleaned from a long and live interactions/demonstrations needed invited to participate in live-streamed ses- distinguished career. to be easier to access. But the most sions. The student paper competition was The technical program featured important lesson we learned was that launched, with judges viewing presenta- diversity: of topics, geography, gender, through a virtual platform, the INMM com- tions live and on-demand. A “virtual hotel familiarity with INMM, and career levels. munity grew, and will continue to grow as
4 Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 ANNUAL MEETING
we reach beyond borders and eliminate We are now busy planning the 2021 Nuclear Materials Management.” We will obstacles to Annual Meeting attendance. joint INMM-ESARDA Annual Meeting, to be need our members’ help to make the This challenging experience ultimately held in Vienna, Austria (and we are working meeting a success. Would you like to get taught us just how much we can achieve on having an online option as well), from involved? Contact [email protected] or and how far we can go—through connec- August 22-26. The theme is “Advancing [email protected] and check the tion and collaboration. Together: Innovation and Resilience in organizations’ websites to learn more.
The Online Platform, Showing the Welcome by INMM President Cary Crawford, in Monday’s Opening Plenary
Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 5 ANNUAL MEETING
INNM ANNUAL MEETING
386 7 INMM members weeks from the decision to move to 709participants visited the virtual to the first day platform more than 30,000 of the Annual Meeting times over 5 days 323 non-members
81 104 students participants meetings15 of the outside of the United States ad hoc planning group 1341 attendees in the four Plenary sessions
sessions held in total—now 200+ slideshows, 193 papers, available for on- 242 abstracts, 320 headshots, demand viewing! 300 bios—all uploaded to the 75 platform by 10 dedicated technicians
6 Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 ANNUAL MEETING
Opening Plenary Session 61st Annual Meeting Plenary Speakers: Ambassador Gustavo Zlauvinen President-Designate of the 10th NPT Review Conference Lisa Gordon-Hagerty Former Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration
Dr. Mona Dreicer: on Disarmament of Iraq or UNSCOM. radiological emergencies in the U.S. and Good morning, and thank you, Susan. And he also served as Director for Inter- abroad. Thank you everybody. It’s a great honor, national Affairs of the Argentine National Administrator Gordon-Hagerty served both to be an introducer and a moderator Space Agency. He is a graduate of the on the White House National Security in this morning plenary, or this opening Argentine Diplomatic Academy and has a Council staff as the Director for Combating plenary, and also for the award. So, thank degree in international relations from the Terrorism, as the Director of the Office of you very much. I’d like to start by saying National University of Rosario. And now, Emergency Response, as acting Director good morning, good afternoon, and good I’ll turn the microphone over to my co- of the Office of Nuclear Weapons Surety, evening to everybody. moderator, Irmie, to introduce our second and was a professional staff member on It’s my job to introduce Ambassa- Opening Plenary speaker. the U.S. House of Representatives Com- dor Gustavo Zlauvinen. He is currently mittee on Energy and Commerce. Dr. Irmgard Niemeyer: the President-Designate of the 10th NPT She began her career as a health Thank you, Mona, and thank you, Review Conference. During his career in physicist at the Lawrence Livermore Susan. Good afternoon from Germany the diplomatic service, the Ambassador National Laboratory. and good morning, good afternoon, has served as delegate from Argentina to Administrator Gordon-Hagerty holds good evening to wherever you are. I now a number of disarmament, nuclear energy, a Masters of Public Health degree in have the pleasure and honor of introduc- and arms control conferences and meet- Health Physics and a Bachelor of Science, ing Administrator Gordon-Hagerty. Lisa ings, including the IAEA Board of Gover- both from the University of Michigan. She’s Gordon-Hagerty serves as the Admin- nors and General Conference, the United a member of the Council on Foreign Rela- istrator of the National Nuclear Security Nations General Assembly’s first com- tions and the Health Physics Society. Administration and Undersecretary for mittee, the NPT review process, the con- Administrator Gordon-Hagerty, I’m Nuclear Security of the U.S. Department ference on the Adoption of the Nuclear sure that everybody is joining me also of Energy and NNSA as confirmed by the Safety Convention, and the Committee on to virtually welcome you to our opening U.S. Senate on February 15, 2018. She is the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. plenary. And I will get back to my co-mod- the first woman to hold this leadership Before taking up his role, he has erator now. position. served as the Deputy Foreign Minister, the As many of us know, NNSA is a Dr. Mona Dreicer: Undersecretary of State for Foreign Policy, semi-autonomous agency whose portfolio Well, I guess if the Ambassador is and the Director of International Organi- includes maintaining and enhancing the ready, I would welcome him to begin his zations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs safety, security, and effectiveness of the remarks. Thank you very much. of Argentina. He was twice seconded to U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile, working the U.N. system as the Representative of to reduce the global danger from weapons Ambassador Gustavo the Director General of the IAEA to the of mass destruction, providing the U.S. Zlauvinen: United Nations in New York, the Chef de Thank you, thank you, Mona and Navy with safe and effective nuclear pro- Cabinet to the Executive Chairman of Irmgard. President of INMM, Mr. Cary pulsion, and responding to nuclear and the United Nations Special Committee
Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 7 ANNUAL MEETING
Crawford, Administrator Gordon-Hagerty, 2020 is a milestone year for the implementation of the Treaty. distinguished members of the Executive NPT. It marks both the fiftieth anniversary Let me share with you some of what Committee of INMM, as well as modera- of the Treaty’s entry into force and the we have been doing so far. I hope you will tors and panelists, dear colleagues. It is a twenty-fifth anniversary of the decision to have some additional ideas and opportu- pleasure for me to have the opportunity extend it indefinitely. Like many regional nities that we can discuss later that could to talk to you in my role as President- and international arrangements, the NPT contribute to future planning. Designate of the 10th Review Conference has faced many challenges and it will con- The effort began after the 3rd Prepa- of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Pro- tinue to face new ones. It is not perfect. ratory Committee Meeting with a strategy liferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). As But we must keep in mind that for 50 years to make maximum use of the time before you are aware, in light of the situation now, this Treaty has proven vital to the the Review Conference. We wanted to related to the global COVID-19 pandemic, maintenance of international peace and start early to bring the issues that are the Review Conference has been post- security and central to providing access to covered and underpinned by the NPT poned to a later date, as soon as the cir- peaceful nuclear applications. It is in our to the attention of decision-makers and cumstances permit, but no later than April collective interest for States Parties to use to promote engagement with the actual 2021. We have held, on a tentative basis, this milestone year to take a step back practitioners that put it to use every day the dates of April 4-29 2021 to hold the and reflect, to reaffirm their commitments in promoting and maintaining the peaceful meeting in New York, but we will continue to this instrument, and to look ahead to the uses of nuclear technology. to assess the situation in light of ongoing future and what they can do to ensure that In addition to the traditional outreach developments. I hope our interaction all of them are able to receive the benefits usually conducted by the President- today will contribute to a dialogue that will this important Treaty provides. Designate, the strategy envisioned continue through various channels in the Discussions on the NPT often turn to holding a series of regional workshops period leading to the Review Conference. the two very important “pillars” of non-pro- and thematic symposia in an effort to You, the INMM membership, include liferation and disarmament. Given the reflect the diversity of the NPT and its the actual practitioners—the engineers, importance of these two issues to peace benefits, and to engage all parties to the scientists, technicians, managers, policy- and security, this is appropriate, but I think Treaty in all regions of the world. These makers, analysts, commercial vendors, it is important to highlight that the third events were made possible with generous educators, and the next generation. In pillar–which provides for access to peace- contributions from the European Union short, you are the experts involved in not ful nuclear applications–has not always through a Council Decision and imple- only the various day-to-day aspects of been utilized to its full potential in many mented through the United Nations Office nuclear materials management through parts of the world. for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), from your national nuclear systems, but on a To promote a successful conclu- the Governments of the United States and global basis through the IAEA and other sion to the Review Conference I have, in Canada, and with the support of several international forums, today and into the my role as the President-Designate and host countries and international organiza- future. following my predecessor´s approach, tions. Let me express my appreciation for Your efforts “to promote leading undertaken a process to engage a broad all of the assistance we have received to research and development as well as the range of stakeholders in a comprehensive, help realize our plans. In particular, let me practical application of new concepts, balanced and constructive dialogue on all take this opportunity to thank Administra- approaches, techniques and equipment three of the Treaty´s pillars—disarmament, tor Gordon-Hagerty for the amazing level for managing nuclear materials” provide non-proliferation, and the peaceful uses of of support provided through the NNSA, essential support to the implementation nuclear energy—with the view to reaching as well as the Department of State and of the NPT and contribute to help make the shared goal of a comprehensive and others, to help realize the workshop in a reality the provisions of the third NPT forward-looking outcome at the Review Nigeria in particular, and the contributions pillar—access to peaceful nuclear applica- Conference, one that can be accepted to planning for other events. tions—from which many countries derive and implemented by all and that produces While the regional workshops sought daily benefit. concrete, sustainable, and transparent to cover all aspects of the Treaty, a special
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effort has been devoted to focus on the awareness of the NPT as the instrument people have the knowledge, insight, and peaceful uses of nuclear energy and that underpins the provision of access to experience needed to think creatively nuclear cooperation. Every effort was important nuclear applications relevant to about the future of the NPT. I note that made to ensure that the events were inclu- daily life. the INMM has an active Youth Forum and I sive, reflective of the broad and growing A clear message from the workshops look forward to exploring the possibilities global nuclear constituency, and, in addi- has been the relationship between eco- to include its members in this event. tion to the diplomatic community, included nomic, social, and environmental progress Third, the “NPT and the Global representatives of institutions and bodies and international peace, security, and sta- Nuclear Industry Forum”—to provide a that play significant roles and perform bility, and realizing the 2030 Sustainable unique opportunity for nuclear industry to activities directly linked to the peaceful Development Goals. Moreover, it was highlight its many positive contributions to uses of nuclear energy, nuclear tech- also noted that the three pillars of the improve the quality of life and well-being niques, and applications in each country. NPT are mutually reinforcing, including of people around the world. It is intended The agendas were designed to stim- the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and to remind participants of the linkages ulate a discussion relevant to the specific its many applications for energy, health, to the framework provided by the NPT regions, and to provide the opportunity to agriculture, drinking water, protection of to facilitate access to peaceful nuclear share experiences, help identify where fisheries, understanding climate change, applications worldwide and to consider additional assistance might be needed, and oceans. Implementation of the third industry’s role and commitment into the and consider possible mechanisms for pillar is critical to achieving support for the future. For this event, consideration has providing that assistance. In this regard, other two. I hope to continue to build on also been given to endorsing a statement it goes without saying that the Interna- the outcomes from these workshops as for presentation to the Review Conference tional Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) plays we advance preparations for the Review President, highlighting the importance of an important role in facilitating access to Conference. the NPT for the nuclear industry and indus- peaceful nuclear applications while also As I noted, our strategy is to broaden try’s role and commitment to the Treaty ensuring that the nuclear materials used the conversation to lay the ground for a and its goals. remain in peaceful uses. successful conclusion to the Review Con- I remain hopeful that we will be in a The strategy was to reach out to all ference. An integral element of this has position to realize these important events regions, with workshops in Ethiopia, Thai- been continued engagement on matters as originally planned in conjunction with land, and Nigeria last year, and another in related to gender, youth, and with the the Review Conference, whenever it takes South Africa in February. We had planned private sector. With this in mind, we hope place. additional workshops in Asia and South to highlight the importance of diversity of The 50th Anniversary of the NPT America before the COVID-19 pandemic voices through three dedicated forums, offers an opportunity for the international took hold. A thematic seminar in Vienna to be held on the margins of the Review community to work together to plan for was also organized to take place in con- Conference: the future. I hope that States Parties will junction with the IAEA TACC meeting, to First, the “Better Together” Forum—to make maximum use of the additional time facilitate participation of experts. consider ways to improve the diversity of we now have to reflect not only on how It remains to be seen what we may be participants at NPT meetings and promote to make progress on non-proliferation able to organize, possibly even virtually, in pathways and opportunities for women to and nuclear disarmament, but also to the period remaining before the Review advance in the field as well as help identify think constructively about how many ways Conference. Perhaps some of you have steps to mainstream gender equality con- that the NPT benefits the lives of people ideas on other possible regional events siderations in the context of nuclear policy. around the world. There are, for example, already being planned where it might be Second, the “NPT and The Next Gen- lessons and experiences that might be appropriate to include a virtual segment eration Forum”—designed to help prepare drawn from the COVID-19 response such with a balanced discussion on the NPT and the future custodians of the NPT in guiding as the additional work the IAEA took on to to highlight peaceful nuclear applications. the non-proliferation regime through its assist member states in combatting and All of these events have helped raise next 50 years, and help ensure that young responding to the COVID-19 pandemic
Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 9 ANNUAL MEETING
using a nuclear-derived testing technique. virtual consultations with all States Parties, States Parties should use the delay to Certainly, the current situation has through the NPT regional groups in New redouble efforts at making progress on reinforced the need in today’s world to York, Vienna, and Geneva, to consider all aspects and consider all three pillars in look for new approaches and to be pre- organizational and procedural matters a balanced manner, so that we can reach pared for unexpected and unanticipated related to the postponement of the Con- our shared goal of a comprehensive and challenges, as well as the importance of ference. But I will also use the opportunity forward-looking outcome. international cooperation. I hope States to encourage delegations to engage in Once again, let me thank you for this Parties will keep this in mind in the NPT an open discussion on the key substan- opportunity to address the INMM. I look context. tive issues that will be either a challenge forward to any thoughts you, as the prac- For example, we have all had to or an opportunity during the Review titioners, may have to help maintain the learn to conduct business differently, and Conference. NPT relevant for as long as it is needed. perhaps to readjust some of our priorities. I will also continue to participate in the I thank you. These changes come with their own sets series of webinars that UNODA is co-orga- of challenges that experts like those of you nizing, with relevant institutions, on those Dr. Mona Dreicer: Well, thank you very much, Mr. Ambas- in the INMM may also be in a position to very same key issues. For example, this sador. You’ve given us a lot to think about, help address, such as the need for greater coming Thursday there will be a webinar and I’m hoping that the audience out there use of communications technology, and co-organized by BASIC and UNODA on is formulating and typing their questions in how might we better interact in the future “Youth and the NPT,” addressed to the the chat function, and Irmie, we will collect on a global basis. Perhaps greater use of next generation of practitioners, experts, those questions as they come in. In the techniques like remote monitoring may be diplomats, and leaders. And by the end of meantime, we have a question to start. As utilized on a broader basis for a variety of July, the IAEA and UNODA will organize you mentioned, there are the three major applications. There may be other areas a webinar on the Agency´s Safeguards pillars of the NPT; disarmament, nonpro- you are already considering. in the 21st Century, related to Pillar II of liferation, and peaceful uses of nuclear Many States Parties have not been the NPT. Other webinars will be orga- energy. The Institute of Nuclear Materi- able to fully take advantage of the oppor- nized in the coming months, with a view als Management works to address and tunities for technological development to keep momentum in the lead up to the advance all three pillars, but we find it’s a and scientific training provided through Conference. challenge to integrate them and not stay Article IV of the NPT. Are there different The COVID-19 pandemic has chal- in stovepipes and address these different approaches that could be used to assist lenged societies and economics across issues separately. The overall theme of this these countries rather than in-person the globe. It has affected international year’s annual meeting is “connection and interactions? Of course, we need to keep peace and security, exacerbating preexist- collaboration,” and you’ve had so much in mind that greater use of technology will ing tensions between States, and creating experience in this area. We were hoping also bring the need for more vigilance further divisions in already fragile multilat- you might be able to speak about some of against the challenges that also come with eral institutions. those experiences or some of the lessons that technology, including cyber secu- But it is also a reminder that global you have learned while trying to engage rity threats. I have no doubt that you, as challenges require global, coordinated and integrate across those pillars during experts in the field, are already consid- solutions. The threat posed by nuclear discussions in the international community, ering possible solutions to address this weapons and nuclear proliferation is one and particularly in the context of preparing aspect. such challenge, and the NPT remains the for the next NPT Review Conference. In the coming months, I will continue best framework to address the dangers to work to engage the broadest constitu- they pose. Ambassador Gustavo ency possible in dialogue and support for The postponement of the 10th Review Zlauvinen: the NPT going forward. Conference due to the pandemic is dis- Thank you, Mona. Yes, it’s a very In this regard, during the next two appointing, but, as I have said in many valid question. Based on my experience, weeks, I will be holding a second round of occasions, it is also an opportunity, and although I don’t know how much the
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previous experiences may apply to the his or her vision? And they ask me about believe that there’s a lot of many linkages extraordinary circumstances we all live in the same things, and I don’t think it is nec- that we can devise and we can foresee in now. I think this is not business as usual essary to have a vision. You have to have the future. Thank you. anymore, in particular for organizations like a view, and my view, which is different from the INMM, the IAEA, but also for the NPT, a vision, is that first of all, the NPT Review Dr. Irmgard Niemeyer: Thank you, Ambassador. Well, we and the Review Conference is not going Conference is not the fiefdom of the have a number of questions coming in to be an exception. Of course, it’s difficult President-Designate, it belongs to the through the Q&A function now on the web to accept changes and our mindset is so State Parties. And it’s up to the State portal, and I will bring three of them in a much fixed into the old ways of working, Parties to decide what they want to do with row to your attention. So, the first question that is going to take some times for insti- our Review Conference. was asked by Nancy Jo Nicholas. The tutions and persons to adapt. What I’m I’m going to be always, as I said, an world is busy responding to the COVID saying is—I’m repeating myself what I just honest broker to try to help engage all pandemic. How can we best concurrently said in my statement—that in my view, one State Parties in all the different topics, as maintain, focus, and support the NPT? of the ways to achieve that and to create a difficult they might be, and for them to The second question was raised by Mark more conducive environment for dialogue engage in that dialogue that not necessar- Goodman. He’s wondering who would is to engage with as many as the stake- ily is going to be nice. It’s going to be tough, issue the proposed statement on the role holders are possible. in some issues. I’m not expecting that, and of the NPT in facilitating nuclear industry? And that’s why I’m not only talking to it is obvious that not all are going to agree And as a third question, which was posed States Parties through their delegations on several of the important points, and so by Richard Johnson, the 2015 Review in Vienna, New York, and Geneva, obvi- be it. The NPT is not asking for an outcome Conference failed to come to consensus ously, but also, I’m talking to all the other document. The NPT ask for State Parties to document due to debates of the Middle stakeholders. So obviously, INMM is one meet periodically, every 5 years to discuss East Weapons of Mass Destruction Free such opportunity, but also as I mentioned implementation of NPT obligations, and Zone issue. How can we avoid breaking before, the gender perspective, the youth, for me, if we do that during the Review tone this time? Would a different, shorter the next generation’s perspective is also Conference in itself is going to be a suc- kind of final document help achieve a that they’re welcome in the private indus- cessful outcome, but then it’s up to State better outcome? I turn it over to you, try. I think we have to have a dialogue, an Parties to move in just ahead and have or Ambassador. integrated dialogue, because although the not have a final document. NPT has different angles (always I would Ambassador Gustavo say the three pillars), at the end of the day, Ambassador Gustavo Zlauvinen: Zlauvinen: they are interlinked. Interlinked because Thank you. Let me start with that But again, State Parties obviously are we’re talking about the same technology last one, because many ask me about the party to the NPT, but also governments that can be used for peaceful purposes that, and indeed the establishment of a have to look into the abuse of their own or for prohibitive purposes under the NPT. nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle constituencies, and that’s why the different And therefore, at the end of the day, each East as provided for by the resolution in stakeholders, the practitioners, the indus- of the practitioners are almost the same. 1995 of the NPT Review Conference is try, and even think tanks have a role to The technologies are the same and there- an important issue for many, many dele- play, indirectly, to lobby the governments fore the more dialogue we have with all gations, many State Parties to the NPT. In obviously, to push for views of actions on stakeholders, the more chances we’re my consultation with delegations, I heard several of those topics. So sorry for the going to have to move forward. again the same questions, that there must long answer, but I think we are learning Many ask me, what is my vision about be some movements and advancements as we move into this new environment the review conference? And it seems to during the Review Conference with regard and let’s see how things move. But again, be a trend to have a vision. When people to these very important issues, and it’s cor- I really appreciate the efforts and the ini- talk to, or journalists talk to, politicians or rectly pointed to as was one of the major tiative taken by the INMM in conjunction even actors or artists, they’ll ask, what is issues that prevented the 2015 Review with the NPT Review Conference, and I
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Conference from having an outcome doc- to be more difficult. It’s a challenge, but after the Administrator completes her ument. It was not the only one, but it was I believe that, so far, we are doing okay. remarks. But the final question I’d like to one of the key factors. And yes, chances Delegations and capitals are still paying pose to you is from Susan Pepper. She’d are, there could be another element that attention to the different challenges at the like to hear more about the Better Together may have derailed a positive outcome NPT or at least challenges facing the NPT Forum and what steps they’re taking to from the next Review Conference. I hope are being considered by main capitals, improve diversity. That’s something that there is not, but I believe that there are and I think we’re in a good shape for the the Institute has taken very seriously and some informal conversations among key time being. we’re very interested to hear more about actors on this issue. And on the second question about that. There are different views obviously, energy and who should be pushing for a and I’m trying to induce that dialogue strong statement at the Review Confer- Ambassador Gustavo before the Review Conference. You can ence on the peaceful uses, I think it’s up Zlauvinen: No, thank you. Thank you, I really never replace negotiations, not even to the delegation. There are many delega- appreciate that question because it’s through these consultations unfolding tions, they are very interested in that, and I something that is very close to my heart with State Parties or the workshops that believe that the workshops that I just enu- and it’s something that has never been we are trying to facilitate. Negotiations merated in my presentation will help bring done before in the NPT Review context. will only take place at the Review Confer- those delegations. I believe South Africa, I think just in how societies are chang- ence, and my experience is that, of the Indonesia, Argentina, and many others are ing dramatically—obviously the role of four weeks they normally have review going to bring up that issue to the Review women, but also of youth—different stake- conferences, negotiations only start to be Conference, and hopefully, there will be holders that never have had a voice in seriously taken into considerations during agreement on a document, separate doc- this process before is raising their voices. the last week, even the last few days. So ument, or a part of an overall document I said in the Security Council briefing in probably we’ll have to wait until then to that is going to be more focused on the February last that the NPT should not be a see what margin of maneuver we have. peaceful nuclear applications. As I say closed club. Of course, it’s up to the State But again, the nuclear-weapon-free zone that, the implementation of the different Parties at the end of the day, the Parties to in the Middle East is going to be one set pillars of NPT are in balance and the dis- the NPT are the states, but I believe that of things. I hope that, for example, some cussions on those pillars in the past have the NPTs implementation depends on so progress on that front that has taken place been in balance. And probably a nuclear many other stakeholders, and therefore in the last year and that progress may help application, or peaceful nuclear applica- we have to have a conversation. I’m not reach at least consensus or avoid dis- tions, are lagging behind. saying that gender participation and the agreement on this issue. I know they will never be on an equal youth have to have formal representation On the first question, this is exactly level as nonproliferation, obviously, but at the Review Conference. It’s not possible what I’m trying to do—to see that the pan- my intention is to level up the treatment of because you have to change the Treaty, demic that obviously is taking the priority peaceful applications a bit higher for the but at least, just that representation of the in most of the governments’ agendas, that interests of all. So, we shall see, but I think next generations and more gender rep- it’s not overshadowing or totally forgetting there’s a lot of interest and I believe that resentation in the delegations should be about the NPT Review Conference. And key delegations will be raising that issue welcome. that’s why I wanted to participate in as and pushing for at least a strong document And therefore, as I said, we are many as events like today’s, but also the or parts of a document on nuclear energy co-organizing with UNODA and Basic this webinars that UNODA is co-organizing or nuclear application. Thursday a webinar on the next genera- with other institutions, my consultations tions, on gender equality and improve- with the State Parties—everything we are Dr. Mona Dreicer: Thank you. We have just about five ment of participation in nuclear issues and doing is to help keep the momentum. It’s minutes left and one thing I neglected to industries, which has also been taken up difficult and the longer the Review Confer- say at the beginning is that there will be by Belgium, Norway, and others. We’re ence is going to be postponed, it's going time at the end for some final remarks, working together to organize that forum.
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So, I think we are creating a new narrative The Review Conference is a vital forum Hawking famously stated, “Intelligence is in the sense that we have to pay attention for the continued implementation and the ability to adapt to change.” Or someone to those voices on the next generation success of the nonproliferation regime, less accomplished in theoretical physics forum. For example, to take some initia- and the United States will continue to be a but with one heck of a fastball, Baseball tive at the regional basis that it can be, for true partner and supporter of the upcom- Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan said, “Enjoying example, useful for broader networks. ing RevCom. Ladies and gentlemen, thank success requires the ability to adapt.” There is a recent small network of you for your kind attention. I think these are two of the key young practitioners and diplomats in the Today, I’d like to look ahead and ask lessons NNSA has learned through this nuclear field in Latin America, started in you to envision what the next decade crisis; adaptability and the importance of Argentina with Brazil and other countries will bring. I also want to share how the connection and collaboration. Faced with in Latin America, that is doing its first steps, themes of this Annual Meeting, adaptabil- the unprecedented challenges created and it’s going to be that experience pre- ity, connection, collaboration, and identi- by the COVID-19 pandemic, NNSA quickly sented in this webinar on Thursday. They fying new challenges and opportunities adapted in order to fulfill our national are trying to organize and launch a global are being implemented by the National security missions. We maximize telework network of next-generation leaders related Nuclear Security Administration, both in where possible and where that is not prac- to nuclear nonproliferation. I welcome that. responding to the COVID pandemic and tical, we practice social distancing while So, there are many good initiatives. We in our nuclear materials management and continuing to perform our mission's essen- are at the first stages, but I believe that by non-proliferation missions. In particular, I’d tial operations. Equally important, we were the time we have the Review Conference, like to discuss how we collaborate with able to connect via conference calls and their voices—I hope they will be heard a like-minded nations through the Interna- virtual meetings with our national security bit louder than in the past. tional Atomic Energy Agency and through laboratories, plants, and sites. We have our strong partnership with the INMM. I will collaborated as a team with our partners to Dr. Irmgard Niemeyer: conclude by issuing a challenge to you in coordinate our efforts and share lessons Thank you very much, Ambassador. an area of both mutual interest for NNSA learned across our entire nuclear security It is now my pleasure to invite Administra- and the INMM. enterprise. As a result of pulling together tor Gordon to deliver your remarks. Once First and foremost, I hope all of you, as one NNSA, I am proud to say that we again, Administrator, thank you very much your families, friends, and colleagues have not missed any deliverables or mile- for joining us today for opening our Annual have remained safe and healthy during stones during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meeting and we are very much looking this global pandemic. The battle against Recognizing how challenging this forward to your remarks. Administrator, the COVID-19 is one we cannot fight, and are adaptability can be, I am impressed with floor is yours. not fighting, alone. Indeed, that we are INMM’s leadership for quickly adapting Administrator Lisa E. Gordon- combating the scourge together is part of this meeting to a virtual platform and suc- Hagerty: what gives us the resiliency to overcome cessfully bringing together this community Thank you. So as Mona said, good the various challenges we have faced to forge ahead on important issues. This morning, good afternoon, and good over the past few months. event is a testament to your flexibility, com- evening to all of you joining from around I’m confident that our ability to work mitment, and spirit of innovation. Hopefully the world for this important event. Thank together will enable us to overcome COVID- this unplanned shift to a virtual format will you to Dr. Imgard Niemeyer and Mona 19, to recover from the tragedies endured prove serendipitous by enabling broader Dreicer and for Carrie Crawford and the and to find a new normal that serves us participation in this year’s INMM Annual entire team at the INMM for the invitation well. Now, when I say new normal, this is not Meeting. Events such as this serve to intro- to speak today. I would also like to thank to suggest that we lower our standards for duce us to a wide array of frameworks and Ambassador Zlauvinen for your remarks freedom, security, or prosperity around the the concepts to which we might not other- and for your efforts as the President- world, but rather recognize the importance wise be exposed and which subsequently Designate of the 10th Review Conference of adaptability to evolving conditions in helps foster broader thinking on vital sub- on the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. order to achieve these objectives. Stephen jects. Through the INMM, already boasting
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an impressive 16 professional chapters we cannot assume that these obstacles by ourselves. Just as working together and 24 student chapters on five different will hinder terrorists indefinitely. The only across public, private, and international continents, I was excited when Carrie told guarantee that malevolent actors never partnerships is key to overcoming and me recently that the next year’s Annual obtain the world’s most powerful weapons recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic Meeting will be held in Vienna, INMM’s is to prevent their acquisition of nuclear and strategic trade controls, it is also criti- first-ever Annual Meeting to be held material. This is why eliminating excess cal to solve difficult challenges associated abroad. This global reach and expanded special nuclear material in civilian applica- with nuclear materials monitoring. This is participation allows for broadening the tions is such an important component of why we have partnered with more than scope of ideas to be shared, assumptions effective nuclear materials management. 100 agencies in over 70 countries on six to be challenged, and solutions to be To ensure that materials of concern continents to prevent nuclear smuggling. explored. never fall into the wrong hands, we must Let me offer one example of collaboration I know you’ve spent the last 24 hours work together to reduce the need for with like-minded nations that is so critical. holding technical working group and com- these materials and to remove or confirm I think we can all agree that modern tech- mittee meetings to discuss an extensive their disposition wherever feasible. Since nology can be a double-edged sword. We range of topics and that you will continue its founding in 2000, NNSA has converted are incredibly fortunate to live in an era in to do so in the coming days. The overarch- or verified the shutdown of more than 100 which we can continue to stay connected, ing themes this year are, understandably, civilian research reactors and removed or work remotely, and hold a meeting like this adaptability, connection, collaboration, confirmed the disposition of over 7,000 that would have been unthinkable when and identifying new challenges and oppor- kilograms of highly enriched uranium and the INMM was formed in 1958. However, tunities for the decade ahead. As always, plutonium eliminated from 48 countries this technology also has a potential dark I am eager to learn the outcomes of these and Taiwan, enough material for more than side. sessions. 300 nuclear weapons. Improvements in the speed and ease Let’s begin however, by taking a Yet even more important than these of knowledge transmission have hap- step back in time. Although this year successes are the new opportunities we pened at a revolutionary pace over the marks NNSA’s 20th anniversary, in reality, are pursuing, initiatives that your American last couple of decades. While this shift has our history goes back to the Manhattan colleagues will be sharing with you this been the source of immeasurable good Project. We are inheritors of the Atomic week. In fact, during one of the NNSA- on our planet, it also poses the risk that a Energy Commission’s legacy, which was hosted panels later today, you’ll hear malicious intellectual capital could spread succeeded in 1975 by the Energy Research how we’re examining novel ways to work and increase the threat of weapons of and Development Administration, which with our domestic and international part- mass destruction. Consequently, strategic itself was dissolved in 1977 and folded into ners to build a framework for evaluating trade controls are an integral component the Department of Energy. reactor systems designs that will minimize of NNSA’s efforts to advance our nuclear When the United States Congress special nuclear materials production, min- nonproliferation and international security established NNSA in the year 2000, it imize diversion pathways and maximize goals. Only by engaging the expertise of made reducing the threat of nuclear pro- reactor performance. We are also working multiple government agencies and inter- liferation and nuclear terrorism around with our national laboratory partners to national partners can we address this the world one of our three main primary develop new capabilities that will permit evolving set of challenges. That is why missions. Indeed, for more than a gener- us to eliminate more technically challeng- NNSA is working with foreign partners ation, the fear that terrorists could acquire ing tranches of nuclear material wherever to ensure countries are building strong and use a nuclear device has motivated and whenever possible. export control systems that allow them to a range of efforts to place nuclear mate- As proud as I am of NNSA’s achieve- protect sensitive commodities and tech- rials beyond the reach of non-state ments in securing nuclear materials, nologies and prevent their misuse. actors. Although constructing a nuclear and no matter how brilliant our scientists At NNSA, we are partnering with the device requires significant resources and and engineers may be, I’m fully aware U.S. interagency, our national laborato- advanced scientific and engineering skills, that we cannot tackle these problems ries, and private sector stakeholders to
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strengthen our regulations by closing of the international safeguards system. staff members also hold leadership posi- potential loopholes, tracking trends of The advancement and the universal adop- tions in the INMM regional chapters that concern, and reviewing emerging tech- tion of the Additional Protocol is an essen- foster advanced nuclear materials man- nologies that may be a proliferation tial part to this effort, and this must remain agement, promote research in this field, concern. We are sharing these findings a priority for all of us as the standard for establish standards, improve the qualifica- and best practices with our international IAEA verification activities. tions of those employed in this field, and partners to facilitate legitimate research Looking forward to the future, let us increase and disseminate information of and trade while denying would-be prolifer- all commit to doing everything we can to nuclear materials management. ators access to the world’s most sensitive advance this goal and in so doing, take a NNSA also engages with the INMM technologies. By sharing information and huge step forward to ensure that contin- student chapters to help students with an keeping our export control lists relevant ued peaceful use of nuclear technology interest in the nuclear security enterprise with today’s technological and market and materials. I hope everyone will remain participate in a wide variety of nuclear trends, we can make the world of prolifer- fully engaged in the planning process for materials management and safeguard ators, non-state actors and terrorists much the IAEA’s Convention on Physical Protec- activities through education and devel- more difficult. tion of Nuclear Materials and its Amend- opment of professional ethics. We also Another important area of collabora- ment Review Conference in 2021. I can regularly participate as presenters in inter- tion for NNSA is our work with the IAEA. As certainly assure you that the United States national and domestic INMM technical the world’s chief coordinator for nuclear will do so as well. workshops that cultivate new thinking in security, the IAEA is the indispensable Returning to the meeting at hand, the the areas of nuclear material stewardship. global body to assist states with improving INMM and the nuclear community are also Because NNSA and INMM share a nuclear security and enabling the peace- integral to ensuring that the highest nuclear similar mission space and such strong ful use of nuclear energy. That is why safety and security standards are met. This collaboration, I feel comfortable ending NNSA provides broad support to the IAEA, is why NNSA actively organizes and leads my remarks today with issuing you a including technology, expertise, training, sessions showcasing the latest develop- challenge. NNSA’s most important asset and funding to strengthen the international ments for nuclear materials management is our people. The effectiveness of both safeguard system. We provide more than at the INMM’s Annual Meetings. NNSA has our defense programs and our non-pro- a dozen training courses every year to enjoyed especially strong collaboration liferation missions is due to the 50,000 the IAEA’s Department of Safeguards on with the INMM Conference Committee scientists, engineers, technicians, program a wide array of essential topics, ranging in preparation for this year’s meeting. In managers, safety and security experts, from fuel cycle technologies to nuclear the coming days, you will engage in dis- and support staff that comprise NNSA’s materials measurements. Although this is cussions about pressing nuclear security workforce. In the two-plus years since I’ve a U.S. government-wide effort, the techni- issues such as insider threat mitigation, become the Administrator, I have been cal base of safeguards support primarily cyber security, transportation security, continuously amazed at the dedication, relies on NNSA and our national labora- countering unmanned aerial systems, commitment, and achievements of our tory partners. This vital mission is a source decommissioning of nuclear facilities, dynamic workforce. Yet at a time when the of great pride to my colleagues and me. and emerging threats and technologies, nuclear security enterprise’s workload is This mission requires the IAEA’s continued among other important topics. increasing to its highest levels in a genera- leadership to ensure nuclear materials are We treasure this collaboration tion, more than one-third of our workforce available for peaceful purposes, but never because our participation in the INMM pro- will be eligible for retirement over the next misused. Like many other member states, vides us with a platform to share our tech- five years. It is an understatement, there- the United States works tirelessly and nical accomplishments with the nuclear fore, to say our ability to recruit and retain around the clock with the IAEA to detect non-proliferation community, as well as the next generation of nuclear security and deter diversions of nuclear material highlight the accomplishments of our inter- professionals is vital to our national secu- and undeclared nuclear activities, thereby national partners to enhance global secu- rity and our nonproliferation missions. increasing the effectiveness and efficiency rity. Beyond the Annual Meetings, NNSA We are pursuing an aggressive hiring
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strategy with a goal of adding approxi- the chat for incoming questions, I’ll take community, I don’t mean just the United mately 4,000 to 6,000 people annually the opportunity of asking the first question. States. So, it’s imperative that we do across our nuclear security enterprise. We And I am doing this as a non-U.S. resident exactly that. have launched a nuclear security enter- INMM member who is interested in inter- prise workforce strategy team to attract national collaboration. In your remarks, you Dr. Mona Dreicer: Thank you very much. I have been and retain the best and brightest from referred to strategic trade control as one trying to look at the questions and find a colleges, universities, trade schools, com- of the areas where NNSA is collaborating way to group them. I will pose one ques- munity colleges, and industry for a diverse with like-minded nations. From my own tion that is internationally-oriented and and dynamic workforce for the future. We work, I much value the collaboration with one that is a little bit domestic-focused. are holding recruiting events at universi- NNSA—for example, in the Member States We have a comment from Willem Jans- ties across the country and have adapted Support Program for the IAEA Department sens, saying that he’s very pleased to to the current pandemic by holding two of Safeguards and also the International hear about the key importance of strategic virtual job fairs this month. Partnership for Nuclear Disarmament Ver- trade control, and wondering how you see Although we have enjoyed success in ification, IPNDV. Now, international coop- the opportunities for connecting stronger our short-term recruiting efforts, we need eration is also subject to constant change connections between nuclear safeguards INMM’s help. Today I am challenging you and evolution, given new challenges and and the export control communities, both to strengthen your support for both STEM opportunities. So, my question is, what at the IAEA and beyond that? and foreign policy educational programs are NNSA’s strategies or plans to maintain Linked to that question, Carrie Mat- that are so vital to developing and train- adaptability in international collaboration? thews asks, “Speaking of strategic trade ing the next generation of nuclear security controls and keeping commodity control experts. INMM has already been a leader Administrator Lisa E. Gordon- lists current with dynamic technology in this field for 62 years and together we Hagerty: Well, thank you for the question, Dr. trends, are there any plans for updating can set the conditions today for successful Niemeyer. First of all we will continue, as the additional protocol annexes in the management of nuclear materials for the you rightfully said, our participation in the near future? In the near term?” next 50 years and beyond. I hope you’ll IPNDV; we will continue to collaborate. The U.S.-oriented question is: Edwin take me up on this challenge and we see We have opportunities ahead of us under Lyman notes that the NRC says that NSA positive outcomes as a result. the great leadership of Dr. Brent Park, our has suspended force-on-force security Thank you for the opportunity to Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear evaluations through the complex, because speak with you today about the themes Nonproliferation. He has set out a stra- of COVID-19. He’s wondering how NNSA that are of paramount importance to us all. tegic framework and a plan so that we is ensuring the site protective forces are Thank you for your time, your support, and can continue to support nonproliferation maintaining their capabilities to prevent for everything you all do to ensure that efforts through things like the challenges theft of special nuclear materials. nuclear and radioactive materials are used of verifications of the IPNDV, the work and safely and securely, and to further the the technical challenges and potential Administrator Lisa E. Gordon- peaceful use of nuclear material and tech- solutions to disarmament verification, and Hagerty: nologies across the globe. I hope you will Thank you. Let me start with the to work on strategic trade controls. We’re enjoy a successful Annual Meeting, and I second one first, in terms of suspending working with our Department of State and look forward to your questions. Thank you. our force-on-force exercises. We did that, Department of Commerce on exactly that. again, during the COVID pandemic. Our Dr. Irmgard Niemeyer: And so, we do have challenges as the first priority, first and foremost priority, is Thank you very much Administrator, world becomes more open. We need to the health and safety and welfare of our not only for providing very informative continue to strengthen our channel and entire workforce. I do need to stress that. insights into the important work of NNSA, challenge others that are like-minded, and Now, in order to continue to do the nec- but also for challenging the INMM mem- those that are not necessarily like-minded essary safeguards and security work at bership. And that’s what we are here for states, to cooperate with us more fully. any of our labs, plants, and sites, we must in the next days. While Mona is monitoring When I say us, I mean the international
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continue to have 24/7 operations, both for not only for our security workforce, but reactors. She’s wondering as designs of security and for safety purposes. So, we also for our health and safety and for advanced reactors come closer to real- continue to enhance our workforce, both everyone else where we’ve taken a pause ization, how will NNSA address the pro- our security, our protective force security, in those efforts. But that does not mean duction and protection of low enriched as well as our health and safety persons. we’re disregarding health and safety or uranium? None of that has changed. And none of security of our nuclear materials of our Then we have a comment from that has been limited or disregarded. In nuclear weapons complex, our nonpro- Sarah Frazer, who wants to thank you for fact, what we’re doing is we’re just delay- liferation and all of the work at our labs, your support of education programs and ing the exercise parts only to ensure, and plants, and sites. nuclear nonproliferation and security for to maintain, a modicum of health and The first question, in terms of strategic the next generation. Also, Leon Ratz men- safety for our workforce. trade controls, export controls, commodity tioned that he’s really delighted to hear It does no one any good to poten- trade, and possibly rewriting the Additional that NNSA is seeking to add more than tially expose our workforce, our security Protocol: Those are all working force, 4,000 people to the nuclear complex. workforce, or our safety workforce unnec- we’re working very closely and continue And he’s wondering whether you could essarily during the pandemic. So that then to do so well with our international part- say a few words more about the NNSA’s we have hotspots of COVID, and that will ners, with the IAEA in this absolutely crit- efforts to recruit and retain a more diverse serve no use whatsoever. So. the profi- ical area. I’ve mentioned before in the first workforce? ciency has not changed whatsoever, nor question, we’re working, finding technical have we decreased our health and safety challenges, providing potential technical Administrator Lisa E. Gordon- or our security work issues associated solutions to disarmament verification. We Hagerty: Okay, great, thank you. In terms of with any of our labs, plants, and sites. are doing work, making sure that we have advanced reactor technology, let me say And that also goes for our workforce, the best tools and techniques available. that the United States is firmly supportive whether they’re a glovebox workforce, So, commodities are an important of advancing next generation nuclear whether they’re health and safety person- issue. And, like I said, we’re working with technology. As you know, the United nel, whether they’re on the front lines of the U.S. interagency as well as our inter- States has put together–President Trump our work throughout our NNSA complex, national partners and trying to figure it out has made it one of his priorities–to ensure their health and safety is our first and again, instead of thinking about today’s that we’re including nuclear energy as foremost priority. Where we can telework, issues associated with trade controls. As part of our “all of the above” strategy for we’ve been maximizing telework. Where I mentioned, Dr. Park has a phenomenal energy approaches. And it’s important to we couldn’t we’ve put in additional safe- group of people, including Kasia Mendel- do so, not only in the United States, but guards, whether they’ve been additional sohn, who many of you know, is his prin- worldwide. And in order to do that, to hand-cleansing stations or spacing, we’ve cipal deputy. They are looking in these support advanced reactor technology, of done that. But again, nothing could be areas of arms control, but thinking about course it’s all about the nuclear materials, further from the truth that we’re relaxing it from a strategic framework, and I hope no matter its diversion. We can look at the our safeguards and security or our health you will be doing the same thing rather gold standard laid out by the United Arab and safety. than looking at one or two or three years Emirates. We’re pleased to see that not That is of paramount importance to ahead. Let’s look to think about where we only did they support a 123 Agreement, all of our labs, plants, and sites throughout can be successful in the next 10 to 15 to 20 but an Additional Protocol. They’re not the NNSA. So, I appreciate the question, years, especially in this area. interested in having closed-loop nuclear Mr. Lyman, but we are absolutely ensur- systems. So, both front-end and back-end ing our health and safety and promoting Dr. Irmgard Niemeyer: Thank you so much, Administrator. capabilities. So, I would advocate using safeguards and security though all of our I have two more questions for you and UAE as a role model for those emerging labs, plants, and sites. The situation is tem- a comment that was raised in the chat nations that are interested in nuclear tech- porary. Once the COVID pandemic has function. First, the question by Susan nology and advanced nuclear reactors. passed, we’ll return to proficiency training, Smith goes into the direction of advanced We are working very closely with
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companies and with the IAEA about We’ve come together, in terms of a cor- workforce, I would say that diverse work- the issues associated with diversion of porate approach, rather than hiring exclu- force is a force multiplier, in terms of the materials and what to do about different sively in stovepipes, across our eight labs, work we do. We advocate for minority- materials, whether it’s high assay low plants, and sites and in our headquarters. serving institutions. We have programs enriched uranium, which takes you up to What we’ve done is we’ve taken a collab- with historically black colleges and uni- about 19.75% enrichment, or other types orative approach where we’re going to versities. We’ve given over $100 million in of materials for reactor technologies. We colleges and universities together, sharing grants last year for exploring and strength- are working on the front end from the resumes, sharing opportunities for the ening our future workforce at colleges and beginning about how we make sure that next-generation workforce. universities. And like I said, with techni- the world manages that material properly, We were so successful that last year cians in trade schools. We're working in whether it’s in a like-minded nation or we exceeded our 7,000-person hiring collaborative areas. emerging nations that are interested in requirements that we had. We are at I’m happy to say approximately 40% advancing nuclear technologies or nuclear about 14,000 employees, for example, of our workforce is female. We have a way energy in their nations. So, we are at the at Sandia National Laboratories in New to go to balance that. What we’re looking front end of that, and also with the Office of Mexico and California. We’re over 11,000 for is a diverse workforce; it doesn’t matter Nuclear Energy and the larger Department at Los Alamos. One of the things we’re what color, what creed, what you are. If of Energy. They are also working on the also doing that I think is tremendous, and you are compelling, you can bring a great, advanced reactor technologies and also it’s been highly successful, is that not only different view to our workforce, and you the materials to fuel them. So, yes, we’re do we need physicists and engineers can enhance the work that is ongoing in absolutely advocating that we’re working and scientists with postdocs, but we also the National Nuclear Security Administra- closely with our counterparts at the IAEA need a huge group of technicians. And tion now, and in the future. It’s our respon- to advance those technologies, and also so, we have started to work with trade sibility to build that diverse workforce for to make sure that we adhere to safe- schools and colleges and universities, the next 50 years and beyond. And we guards and to safety standards associ- and with different colleges and universi- can’t do it without a diverse workforce. ated with next generation nuclear energy ties that provide associates degrees and We’ve got opportunities that abound and it technologies. begun training them. I was just down at the would be really helpful. Like I said, with the With regard to training and NNSA’s Savannah River Site in South Carolina last challenge to the INMM about collaborating recruiting and retaining the next-gener- week. And last year we gave $5 million for with you and trying to find different ways ation workforce: As I mentioned, sadly, grants, for technicians, for trade schools, of advocating for STEM from pre-K all the in the next five years, 30% of our work- for machinists, for glovebox handlers for a way from kindergarten through primary force will be eligible for retirement. That number of different areas. If you can state and secondary education. doesn’t put us in a good place. Time is it, we need it. We have a dearth of it here in the of the essence. We need to bring on the We’re one of across the board, United States. We know we have chal- next-generation, diverse workforce now whether, like I said, it’s policy analysts, sci- lenges around the world, but it’s in all of so that those who are eventually going to entists, engineers, administrative profes- our best interests to grow the next best retire can mentor our next generation of sionals; we need everyone to come and and brightest future for not only the NNSA, scientists, engineers, technicians, admin- work in the nuclear security enterprise. but for our international community. I’m istrative staff, nuclear policy experts, non- And again, we’re all across the United sure everyone is finding themselves in a proliferation experts and security experts. States from California to Washington, D.C., similar predicament and we can be stron- We have done something in the NNSA you can find us in Tennessee, Texas, New ger together if we work in those areas col- I’m very proud of, not only because of the Mexico, California, Missouri. So, we’re very laboratively through high school, primary unique nature of the NNSA, where we’re excited about where we’re located and education, high school, college, and made up of about 1,900 federal employ- the opportunities that we have available university. So, I’m looking forward to that. ees and the rest of our workforce at our to us. We’ve seen tremendous strides in the last labs, plants, and sites are hired by them. In terms of strengthening our diverse couple of years and we’ve got a long way
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to go, but I think we’ll get there and we’ll My hope over the coming months is NPT truly is the cornerstone of the nuclear get there together. So, I know many of the to continue to broaden the conversation, nonproliferation regime. I strongly agreed colleagues that are watching today are to raise awareness and greater recogni- that further developments in nuclear part of the NNSA recruitment effort across tion that the NPT is the cornerstone of the energy and technology will continue to our labs, plants, and sites. And I thank you nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament help countries reach their sustainable for all the work that you’re doing. regime, and the underpinning framework development goals. that facilitates access to peaceful nuclear Again, echoing the Ambassador’s Dr. Mona Dreicer: applications, which are so important to statements, all States Parties need to work Well, thank you very much. That’s very improve our daily lives and help countries together to support the NPT. As we look encouraging. I hope INMM can be a strong achieve the Sustainable Development ahead to the next 50 years of collabo- partner for NNSA across the U.S. and inter- Goals. I encourage all stakeholders to ration, particularly in light of the diverse nationally, because our organization is work together to ensure continued safe, challenges we face throughout the globe interested in these types of career develop- secure access to nuclear technologies— today on the 50th anniversary of the Treaty, ment activities. And with that, we’re going for our future and that of our children and we continue to express the United States’ to move to final remarks. And I’d like to ask grandchildren. support for this cornerstone of the global the Ambassador if he would like to go first. Let me again express my apprecia- nuclear nonproliferation regime. And we We have, I believe, about 10 minutes left. So tion to Cary Crawford, Carrie Mathews, the will continue to promote the Additional maybe each of you could take about five INMM leadership, and all of you present Protocol’s universalization as the de facto minutes for your closing remarks. I turn it today. I wish you a productive Meeting standard for safeguards implementation. over to the Ambassador first. this week and I look forward to any further To be sure, we fully understand and Ambassador Gustavo thoughts from the discussions that I might appreciate the challenges of holding the Zlauvinen: draw on in the lead up to the Review Con- NPT Rev Con amidst the global pandemic. Thank you, Dr. Dreicer. I am grateful ference. And I thank you. Yet we are encouraged by the impor- for the opportunity to speak with all of tance that the global community places Administrator Lisa E. Gordon- on working to ensure that nonprolifera- you today and for the honor to share the Hagerty: Plenary with Administrator Gordon-Hag- tion standards and values continue to be Again, thank you all for allowing me to erty. We have had a lively discussion and I upheld. participate today and thank you, Ambas- have heard some good perspectives and With that, I would again like to thank sador, for sharing the virtual podium with food for thought that I will keep in mind as the INMM for the opportunity to speak me today. I think we can all agree about we approach the Review Conference. with you today. You all do important and the important and often overlooked role Our work in the time before us is tremendous work every day on behalf of of peaceful nuclear energy applications in clear. There are challenges ahead, and your respective countries and the interna- everyday life. The United States and the important, yet difficult conversations that tional community. And I am confident we NNSA continue to be strongly supportive need to take place. As the President- will continue to execute our important mis- of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy Designate of the 10th Review Conference sions with the utmost integrity to ensure and associated initiatives. Since the I encourage all States Parties to reflect the benefits of peaceful uses of nuclear Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty came into on the NPT in its 50th anniversary, and to energy can be realized by all for decades force, cooperation under its framework make maximum use of the additional time to come. I wish you all the best for a suc- has expanded to address many contem- we have due to the pandemic to work cessful conference. Thank you. porary challenges, including food security, together, collaboratively and construc- medical treatments, and environmental Dr. Irmgard Niemeyer: tively, in a balanced consideration of all protections. When harnessed peacefully, Administrator Gordon-Haggerty three of the NPT pillars—nonproliferation, nuclear energy can help overcome obsta- and Ambassador Zlauvinen, I’m sure disarmament and peaceful uses—with a cles to raising standards of living across that everybody’s joining me in thank- view to sustaining this important Treaty for the world and improving the human condi- ing you once again for joining us today the next 50 years. tion. To echo Ambassador Zlauvinen, the and sharing with us your achievements,
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views, expectations, and also challenges collaborate in nuclear materials manage- speakers today—how to better promote for nuclear materials management. We ment, notwithstanding the restrictions due the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and started with about 350 participants, and to the COVID-19 pandemic. And I’m sure how to recruit and retain the workforce we are still almost at that number. And I that we’ll take this momentum into the next in nuclear material management. And no guess this definitely tells us that people few days. Mona and I wish everybody an matter where you are, please stay safe very much appreciate your time and inter- exciting and successful Annual Meeting. and healthy. Thank you very much. The est in INMM. It also tells about the dedi- Please think about the challenges meeting is adjourned. cation of the participants to connect and brought forward by our distinguished
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Tuesday Plenary Session 61st Annual Meeting Plenary Speaker: Massimo Aparo Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Safeguards, International Atomic Energy Agency
Cary Crawford: honor for me to introduce Mr. Massimo posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. I would like to introduce our moder- Aparo, who goes by “Max.” He is the But it is important that I also give an ators who will then introduce our Plenary Deputy Director General and Head of the overview of the state of affairs regarding speaker today. Our two moderators are Department of Safeguards at the Interna- the Iran nuclear deal and update you on Susan Pepper and Carrie Matthews. Susan tional Atomic Energy Agency where he’s our effort to streamline the application Pepper is the Vice President of the INMM been working since 1997. Prior to becom- of state-level approaches (SLA) within and the Chair of the Nonproliferation and ing DDG of Safeguards in 2018, Max was the Department of Safeguards. I think it’s National Security Department at Brookha- the Acting Director for the Office of Verifi- important that you understand how import- ven National Laboratory where she’s cation in Iran. He also was a Section Head ant it is for us, our effort, and our work on responsible for work in the area of nonpro- in the Division of Technical and Scientific this state-level approach and the state- liferation, security, and international safe- Services in the IAEA and the head of the level concept. guards policy, R&D, and implementation Tokyo regional office in Japan. Max, we Let me start with Iran. support. She served as the ISPO liaison are so grateful that you are spending time The Joint Comprehensive Plan of officer in Vienna from 1994 to 1998 and is with us this morning and we are really Action—the so-called Iran Nuclear Deal— a Fellow of the INMM. Carrie Matthews is eager to hear your remarks. So, with that, was a year in the making, after many a Senior International Safeguards Advisor I’m going to turn the floor over to you and months of intensive and highly detailed at Pacific North West National Laboratory thank you very much. negotiations. Tomorrow will be the fifth where she has worked for more than 20 anniversary of the signature of this deal Massimo Aparo: years in nonproliferation and safeguards and that time was widely regarded as a Thank you, Carrie, thank you very research, engagement, international major triumph for multilateralism and non- much. It is a sunny afternoon here in cooperation, and program management. proliferation. The agency already started Vienna and it’s really a pleasure to address She also worked in the IAEA Department the verification and monitoring before you today, colleagues and friends. I’m only of Safeguards as a Senior Safeguards the JCPOA signature because we started sorry that it’s not in person. This is the Coordination Officer. She is the Chair already under the Joint Plan of Action, second year in a row that I was supposed of this year’s Annual Meeting Technical which was the temporary agreement they to come to the INMM symposium. Last Program Committee, heavily responsible started 1.5 years before. year we had difficulties with the Iran deal for everything you’ve seen here, all of the By now, it is 4.5 years of the JCPOA and I had to cancel my participation. This good that you’ve seen here this week. plus 1.5 years of JPA, so it is 6 years of an year we have the COVID-19 pandemic and And she is also a Fellow of the INMM. enormous effort by the agency in terms of we are forced to do it with this virtual sym- I will turn it over to Carrie at this point inspection, analysis, reporting. It has taken posium. But I’m sure that the bonds and and have a great day. up a significant proportion of the Safe- the connections that bind us as the safe- guards Department’s work. Just to remind guarding community together are strong Carrie Mathews: you, nowadays the effort in Iran can be and we will be able to withstand this virus. Thank you so much, Cary Crawford. counted in about 3,000 calendar days in The virus will also be a topic of my speech It’s really good to be with you all today. the field while the total effort in safeguard because I wanted to tell you how we met Good morning and good afternoon and implementation in the world is something good evening to everyone. It is a great and overcame many of the challenges
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around 13,500. So, Iran takes up a big The Agency’s relationship with Iran abstentions, calling on Iran to fully cooper- portion of our effort. continues to be good with regard to the ate with the agency to satisfy the agency Now, when we started at the begin- JCPOA. We had some difficulties in the request without any further delay. ning, everything ran fairly smoothly and past that related to an unfounded accu- Let me be clear: providing comple- Iran remained within the boundary of the sation made against one of our inspec- mentary access under the additional deal. Today, this situation is much more tors last year, but apart from that Iran is protocol is a legal obligation. In general, uncertain. The U.S. withdrew from the deal cooperating and has collaborated with us together with the declaration of the state, in May 2018. Sanctions were imposed on on the use of charter aircraft to transport access is one of the basic pillars of the Iran and since May 2019, Iran has gradually inspectors to and from Iran during the safeguards system. If we remove one reduced its nuclear-related commitments. COVID-19 pandemic when there were no of these elements, we destroy the safe- The Parties, apart from the U.S., remain in other flights available from Vienna to Iran. guards system. In addition, as the Director the deal. And these charter flights helped us to con- General said, there is no “a la carte” addi- As far as we are concerned, the most tinue to implement all the verification and tional protocol where the state decides important element of the deal is the level monitoring, even during this difficult time, which access to grant and which to deny. of verification and monitoring activity. Iran and we have to thank Austria and Iran for For the Agency and for the credibility of has continued to allow the Agency to con- helping to facilitate this activity. We have to the safeguards system, this is fundamental. tinue its verification and monitoring activity thank, also, other member states that have Now, even though the activity we as before—even though it has decided provided additional budgetary support to want to clarify may have happened quite to go beyond the level of enrichment, to pay for it. some time ago, 15 years ago, nuclear increase the LEU stockpile and not respect At present, we have a serious issue material has no expiry date and in order the limit on their centrifuge activity. The related to the fact that the Agency has to fully clarify that there is no proliferation level of verification that was established been trying to clarify the information concern, we need to receive the answer was to make sure that these nuclear-re- related to the correctness and complete- to the questions that we’ve asked. We lated commitments were fully met by Iran, ness of Iran declaration under their safe- need to have the access to the locations and remain the same as before. guard agreement and additional protocol. we have notified to Iran. So, I am hoping The situation, in any case, is cause As part of this effort we have identified, in that we can resolve this issue with Iran in for concern. The stockpile of low-enriched analyzing safeguards-relevant information, the next few weeks and Iran will provide uranium is increasing well beyond what a number of questions related to nuclear the access and will allow us to take envi- was the limit established by the JCPOA material and nuclear-related activity at ronmental samples. and, similarly, the heavy water has gone three locations in Iran that Iran did not Let me discuss more on the impact beyond the threshold defined by the declare. of the COVID-19 pandemic on safeguards JCPOA. But even more worrying is the We have been trying to engage implementation. As you know, the pan- number of new centrifuges that Iran is now Iran on these matters since 2019 and we demic created a lot of difficulties because testing and using to enrich uranium. Why received no response. And therefore, a number of countries have adopted is it more worrying? Well, it’s more worry- almost 6 months later, we have notified and implemented strict health and safety ing because while the stockpile of LEU or Iran of our intentions to conduct comple- related measures which restricted travel, the stockpile of heavy water or even the mentary access at two locations in Iran. free movement of people, grounding a enrichment level can be reversed and They objected to these accesses and number of flights, even closing borders. brought back within limits, the knowledge our inspectors did not gain access. We Now, safeguard implementation that is acquired through testing more centri- reported this to the Board for the first time based on in-field verification has a lot of fuges than was originally envisaged in the in March. We discussed with Iran several problems with all these restrictions. JCPOA cannot be canceled. From that times between April and May the possibil- We had a very difficult time for our point of view, Iran is increasing its capabil- ity to have this access provided, without inspectors to reach a number of nuclear ity in terms of knowhow in the centrifuge success. In June, the Board of Gover- facilities, sites, and other locations. And we area. nors passed a Resolution 25 to 2 with 7 had a number of examples where agency
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inspectors had to make extraordinary means we will have an increased effort testing this performance on several differ- efforts in order to carry out inspections. and heavier workload for each agency ent states and, hopefully, by the end this For example, driving by car for two or three inspector and other staff. year we will have revised a few state-level days because there was no other means And, of course, our objective is to approaches that we will discuss with our by which they could reach the nuclear continue our verification activity to the end member states to finalize them. facility from Vienna. We were lucky to have of the year, even if we face an additional This is the end of my speech. I think the support of certain member states who wave of coronavirus. Then we will need that these three issues that I covered today provided us with budgetary funding to use even more support and cooperation for were the importance of the work of the charter aircraft, not only for Iran, as I men- our member states. agency safeguard for international prin- tioned before, but to a number of other Now, let me conclude with a few ciples and security. Also, it demonstrates countries where there were no other pos- words on the state-level approach. It’s the resilience, adaptability, and dedication sibilities to reach these countries. As the almost 30 years since the Agency began of our workforce. And, hopefully, it shows DG directed us, the Agency’s verification making greater use of being able to see the enthusiasm of our department of the work did not stop for one second. a state’s nuclear capability as a whole. In effective and efficient implementation of How did we do that? First of all, we recent years our folks have been devel- safeguards in an objective manner. Thank prioritized all the most critical verifica- oping and implementing state-level safe- you very much and I would be open to tion activities. Everything that could be guards approaches for states with both a your questions. delayed or could be postponed was comprehensive safeguarding agreement postponed. However, these postpone- and additional protocol in force. Susan Pepper: Thank you, Max. I think you chose ment periods cannot be extended for too By now, we have 131 states—actually three topics that are very interesting to the long. So, in order to be able to implement by now we have 132—because today I audience and to the INMM. As the co-mod- a consistent approach of what we could signed an additional state-level approach erator, I get the honor of asking the first perform and which activities we could and and these cover 97 percent of all nuclear question and I think I will pick one having could not postpone, we centralized such material under the agency safeguard (by to do with the pandemic and the Agency’s decision making in my office. So, on a daily significant quantity). Our ultimate goal response to that. You’ve learnt a lot as you basis, I met in my office with the director remains to develop SLA for all states with have led the Department of Safeguards of the different operation divisions and safeguards agreements in force. through this pandemic, caring for the we have discussed what kind of activity The project that we launched last year safety of your staff while also meeting your could be performed, what kind of activity was to refine our state-level safeguard priority mission. What can you recommend had to be performed, and which could be approach by improving the detail of our to facilities and state authorities to think postponed. procedure for acquisition path analysis or about as they adjust to the next normal Of course, the safety of our inspec- development of the state-level approach, situation and, based on what you’ve learnt tors is very important and we introduced but also by defining performance targets in the past few months, do you anticipate, systematic testing for COVID-19 prior to that will become the major element for for example, more reliance on unattended travel. And we also provided equipment determining the frequency and intensity of systems, remote operations, or more use to enable our staff to work remotely from our inspection. of communication technology as you Headquarters—and securely—for an After months of discussion and testing cooperate to implementation safeguards extended period of time. I’m very proud different possibilities, we have agreed in the future? of our performance during this period. within the Board to assert our performance There will be an impact for the rest targets to be used for diversion and issues Massimo Aparo: of the year to make up for postponed of nuclear material for technical objec- Well, the use of an unattended remote activities. This will require operational tives that includes diversion on issues of system, of course, facilitated certain sit- adjustment which may include increased different types of nuclear material. We still uations during this pandemic because it frequency and intensity of in-field verifica- have a lot of work to do because we’re still allows us to maintain a certain level of con- tion during the second half of 2020, which refining certain aspects, but we are now tinuity of knowledge on nuclear material
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and activity in the facility. However, the Massimo Aparo: Susan Pepper: presence of our inspector in the field That’s a bit difficult to say. In general Sure. There’s a comment that I would cannot be replaced only by the use of terms we are talking about JCPOA, you like to read first. Mashada Da Silva says, remote monitoring and telemonitoring. I said? “Thank you Max for the nice presentation. hope that this has convinced a number of We would like to point out all effort that member states that remote monitoring can Carrie Mathews: ABACC and IAEA are doing to perform Yeah, I think the question may be help both the operator and the inspector inspections in Brazil and Argentina, with about what have you learned there that in both and normal and special circum- very good cooperation between the agen- might impact the way you think about stances. What also we have learned, par- cies and national authorities.” So, that’s safeguards implementation elsewhere, ticularly from our internal approach, is the nice to hear that feedback, that things are perhaps. I’m not sure exactly the nature of importance of regional offices in situations going well. where there are restrictions of movement. the question, but what have you learned in It’s partly because of our two regional the 6 years with Iran? Massimo Aparo: That is very important. ABACC has offices in Tokyo and in Toronto that we Massimo Aparo: were able to perform our verification activ- been very helpful. It even shared some We were never part of the deal, so ities in Japan and Canada with relatively of the cost for our verification activity. In we just received a set of requirements fewer problems. So, it is possible that in general terms I have to thank both the that we have to implement and we have the future we may consider establishing regional authority and the member states to produce some verification requirement additional regional offices. because every time we required their that we have to implement. I think, inde- Also very important is the use of infor- support to access the location, and to pendently of whether the idea was good mation technology, both in the field and at sometimes wave certain specific require- or bad, the verification system that was Headquarters, so this is another element. ments or to reduce the impact of these created as a part of this deal was the stron- I don’t think COVID-19 can drastically requirements. gest that we ever had in the world. You change safeguards implementation, so I can always improve things but you have Susan Pepper: don’t expect much more from the regional/ to remember, normally a deal is based on And one other comment from Irmie state authority, but maybe it had to make it a negotiator of two parties—one they want Niemeyer and this is—I’ve seen a couple clearer how important is it to maintain their more, and another one they want less. So, of comments about this—people being commitment to our legal obligations. it’s very difficult to find the perfect com- surprised that it’s 5 years since the JCPOA Carrie Mathews: bination of items to satisfy both of these. was put into effect. Irmie points out that Thank you very much, Max. I have These are for the safeguards system in we don’t have any presentations to mark the honor of asking you the next question. Iran. In general terms, it is likely that we this anniversary and so let’s think of some- And thank you for that excellent talk, as now have a safer system that is consistent thing we can put together in 2021, maybe this insight into these topics are of keen and objective across the world. This has to have a session to talk about the JCPOA interest to the INMM community and it’s been one of my efforts and will continue and what it’s meant for the safeguards evident in the questions we’re seeing to be one of my efforts to build, to main- regime. So, let me see if I can find a ques- coming in, in the chat. So, I want to ask a tain a system that implements safeguards tion here. question posed by Bill Horn. He says after in the same way, while, of course, taking There’s one, it says it’s from Justin. 6 years of monitoring and verification work into consideration the differences in coun- I don’t know Justin’s last name or where in Iran, what is the most significant lessons try-specific factors. he’s from, but it says, “If a country worries that exposure of undeclared activities from you’ve learned for the future implementa- Carrie Mathews: tion of safeguards? Are there things you years ago could cause them harm today, Susan, would you like to ask the next would do differently based on what you’ve how might they be transparent with the question? learned in Iran? IAEA while also saving face and protecting themselves?”
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Massimo Aparo: of working from home, there was no way Now, you have to realize that is quite Well. It is very difficult to judge the to access state-level acquisition path anal- heavy for the life of inspector, being away transparency of a country. The judgment to ysis, which is on an inaccessible network, for such a long period. So, we don’t want the transparency of a country is only com- so there was an additional delay because this to become a regular thing. But this is pleted when we draw our conclusions and of that. We are now getting in better why we are thinking maybe to have one we are able to say that there are no indi- shape. We look to possibly, I would say, or two more regional offices, to cover a cations of undeclared nuclear activity and maybe in the first quarter of 2021. There certain area of the globe with reducing the material in a country itself. At the moment, was some additional information in the level of travel there. what I can say is that the JCPOA had intro- SER [State Evaluation Report] in terms of Susan Pepper: duced a better environment between us the project itself. We had different meet- Thank you. and Iran, especially at the very beginning, ings with different member states to keep in the way we have been working with them informed of the project, but the aim Carrie Mathews: Iran to help them to be able to accomplish is sometime in the first quarter to have a We just have about three or four all the different steps that were required technical briefing that will describe what minutes left. I just want to take the oppor- to start for the implementation of JCPOA. we’ve achieved and what is the impact of tunity to ask one final question and then These help to reduce the conflict level that on the state. Susan can close the meeting. between the two parties and help to have Susan Pepper: Max, you’ve described that a lot of a better trust of each other. That is the only progress has been made to strengthen Thank you, Max. We have a couple thing I can say and so far, our cooperation the guidance for the SLA project and I also more comments about safeguards and in the area of JCPOA remains quite good. noticed in reading the 2019 Safeguards ABACC. John Tracy says, “Great talk Max. Implementation Report that you used new Susan Pepper: With many inspectors required to quar- graphics, you showed new trends. There’s Thank you. I’ll ask another question antine before each inspection, is there a a lot more meaningful, rich data in the SIR. I see in the chat. From Richard Johnson: consideration for changing approaches to I’m just wondering, as you go forward and “What are IAEA’s plans to brief member how inspectors travel? Is there any consid- have SLA’s implemented for all states, how states in detail on the SLA improvement eration, for example, about having inspec- do you see that affecting your ability to project, perhaps even a public report? tors stay longer in some countries so that report new kinds of information in the SIR? It would seem your efforts go far to they’re not having to travel back and forth Do you see the potential, for example, for express concern or to address concerns as much?” reporting on technical objective achieve- expressed by some member states about Massimo Aparo: ment, performance targets, path cover- the potential for subjectivity.” Yes, of course. Actually, this is what is age, things like that, sometime in the near Massimo Aparo: happening because of the 14 days’ quar- future? Thank you, Richard, for the question. antine. Of course, in Europe it’s a bit easier. Massimo Aparo: Actually, we had an initial plan at the begin- We don’t have quarantine all over Europe You have seen already the new SIR ning of the year to have a briefing some- but our inspectors that are resident in issue in 2020, which has been issued time in the third quarter of 2020. Now, Japan have to go into quarantine and during one of the most difficult times of there is some delay in our project due similarly, to a number of other countries the pandemic, to include additional infor- to the fact that established performance like Canada and South Africa. Before, the mation, additional graphs, and additional targets are quite difficult. The pandemic longest period of time our inspector was in trends, including a new fancy cover. So, also prevented us from continuing the the field was 3 weeks, maybe 3.5 weeks. yes, we plan to expand the SIR. This is level of work that we were used to before. Since the beginning of the pandemic we also the intention of the DG to provide You have to remember that now we use have been up to 6 to 8 weeks that the additional information to the member two separate networks, one which is not inspectors remain in the country, to avoid state on the way we are doing our busi- accessible from outside and one which is. that they come back and somebody else ness. Now, how information coming from So, during especially the first period has to go into another 14 days’ quarantine.
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the SLA will be introduced to the SIR, it's much information that again it becomes forward to working with you and your too early to say. unreadable. staff to build a tremendous program for Certain elements or performance that meeting. For the audience, thank you aspects is mainly used for planning pur- Susan Pepper: for your participation and your questions. Thank you, Max. Thank you very poses. Certainly, we are trying to have Sorry we didn’t get to all of them, but much for your willingness to participate more standardized technical objectives enjoy the rest of today’s program. We look in this Plenary and we’re glad that we’ve but even the technical objectives are forward to seeing you back at tomorrow’s made it work after you had to cancel last depending very much on the different opening Plenary. Just be aware that the year. So, we’re really happy to see you on states. So, the SIR at the end is a docu- next session starts at 10:50. Thank you and the screen. And thanks also for the Q&A, ment that is used by our member state to have a good day. that was very interesting. We look forward better understand what we are doing. We to seeing you next year in person in the have to avoid the risk that we introduce so Annual Meeting in Vienna, and we look
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Wednesday Plenary Session 61st Annual Meeting Plenary Speaker: Dr. Rita Baranwal Former Assistant Secretary for the Office of Nuclear Energy, U.S. Department of Energy
Corey Hinderstein: virtual INMM Annual Meeting. And since I speak. I view nuclear energy as crucial Good morning, everybody. Welcome have the podium, I’m going to hijack the to ensuring the sustainability of our envi- to day four of our INMM Annual Meeting. whole process because I would person- ronment now and into the future. Nuclear We’re excited to have another excellent ally recognize Carrie Matthews for the energy is the nation’s largest source of Plenary speaker to start with. For those incredible job she did, in not only putting clean, reliable, and resilient electricity who don’t know me, I’m Corey Hinder- together a tremendous technical program, and it generates about 20 percent of the stein. I’m the Immediate Past President of but then converting it in a matter of just electricity in the United States and over 55 the INMM. a few weeks into the INMM’s first-ever percent of this country’s clean energy. In So, with that, I’m ready to turn it over virtual Annual Meeting. Thank you, Carrie, 2019 alone, electricity that was generated to the co-chairs and moderators for this a job well done. Now, back to our regu- by nuclear energy in the United States session. Mark Schanfein is a Senior Non- larly scheduled program. It’s my honor avoided the release of over 476 million proliferation Advisor at Idaho National to introduce our Plenary speaker, Dr. metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere. Laboratory, and has over 40 years of Rita Baranwal, who serves as the Assis- That’s the equivalent of removing 100 experience in nuclear nonproliferation tant Secretary for the Office of Nuclear million cars from the road. Many countries and safeguards. He worked for 8 years Energy in the U.S. Department of Energy. see nuclear energy as a means to meeting at the IAEA in Vienna, including 4 years Dr. Baranwal leads the Office’s efforts to their energy demand and growth, and as a Safeguards Inspector, and 4 years promote research and development on supporting their clean energy goals and as the Unit Head for unintended monitor- existing and advanced nuclear technolo- providing energy, diversity, and security, ing systems. And Mark is a Fellow of the gies that sustain the existing U.S. fleet of just like we do. And I’m confident that the INMM. Larry Satkowiak is currently the nuclear reactors, enables the deployment United States’ nuclear energy technologies Chair of the INMM Annual Meeting Com- of advanced nuclear energy systems, and can and will play a major role in providing mittee. And in his day job, he is the Direc- enhances the U.S.A.’s global commercial the United States and the world with clean, tor of Nonproliferation Programs within nuclear energy competitiveness. reliable energy for decades to come. the National Security Sciences Directorate Dr. Baranwal has a bachelor’s degree Nuclear energy is revolutionary at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where from the Massachusetts Institute of Tech- beyond just electricity generation, though. he’s responsible for efforts on nuclear nology in material science and engineer- It can provide low emission energy for nonproliferation, security, international ing, and a master’s degree and PhD in water desalination to achieve worldwide safeguards, research and development, the same discipline from the University of water security. It can decarbonize the and implementation. He is a Past Presi- Michigan. Rita, we are so grateful that you industrial sector with process heat. It can dent of the INMM and is also a Fellow of are spending time with us this morning, decarbonize transportation with hydrogen the Institute. So, I’ll turn it over to Larry to and we are eager to hear from you. So, I’m and electrification. Just recently, my office introduce our morning speaker. going to turn the floor over to you. Thank awarded $9.2 million for a pilot program you, Rita. to be launched at the Davis-Besse Power Lawrence Satkowiak: Plant outside of Toledo, Ohio to look at Good morning, good afternoon, good Dr. Rita Baranwal: using the plant as a means to generate Thank you. And thanks to Corey and evening, depending on where you’re at. hydrogen for the transportation sector, as I want to welcome everybody to our first Carrie and Larry for the opportunity to
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well as the manufacturing sector in those very exciting time for our industry. In April So, I want to talk about recycling for communities. And also, nuclear energy of this year, the Administration’s Nuclear a moment. For a long time, it’s surprised can be used certainly for the betterment Fuel Working Group released its report, me that we continue to be satisfied with of mankind by way of medical applications Restoring America’s Competitive Nuclear using our commercial fuel, only 5 percent. and space exploration. I believe that the Energy Advantage, which lays out policy And for those that aren’t familiar, I’ve spent United States has the most innovative options to restore America’s leadership much of my career developing nuclear technology offerings in the advanced in nuclear energy and technology. The fuel for our Navy’s aircraft carriers and sub- reactor technology space. The United report recommends continued support marines, as well as for the private sector. States is developing a diverse catalog of for the demonstration of U.S. advanced And so, fuel is something that’s very near technology options from micro reactors— nuclear technologies. My office took and dear to my heart. And so, knowing the for small grids, remote or isolated commu- action on that by launching the Advanced difficulty that we have with the storage and nities—to SMRs, Small Modular Reactors, Reactor Demonstration Program, or ARDP disposal of our fuel in this country, there to large reactors to meet base load gen- for short. This program focuses DOE certainly has to be options for dealing with eration needs. and non-federal resources on the actual used commercial nuclear fuel. Last year, We have the right reactor for the construction of advanced demonstration I had the privilege of visiting La Hague application. New, advanced nuclear reac- reactors that are affordable to build and in France and was very impressed with tors have the potential to solve the diverse operate. The window to apply to that what I saw there. They were recycling 96 challenges across our nation, as well as solicitation is still open and will close on percent of used light water reactor fuel across the globe. At DOE we’re focusing Wednesday, August 12. and putting the most hazardous isotopes our efforts around four priorities. The first Ultimately, our goal is to make awards into glass logs, and that significantly sim- is to sustain our existing fleet of 95 reac- by the end of this calendar year. The plifies long-term storage issues. tors across this country. And that includes funding that we have for that program is So, I, at the moment, am exploring working on development efforts for acci- $230 million. And it’s great to be able to options for dealing with used commercial dent-tolerant fuels, as well as making witness the bipartisan support that we nuclear fuel, and looking to find ways to sure that other efforts are assessed and have for this type of activity in the Office enable recycling in our advanced reac- evaluated through our light water reactor of Nuclear Energy. We’re also strongly tors in the future. We need to make sure sustainability program. Our second priority supporting the National Reactor Inno- that the world has access to civilian U.S. is to get advanced reactor technologies vation Center, NRIC for short, to these nuclear technology. We want the world to across the finish line. That’s a top priority demonstrations and the development of adopt and utilize our technology, because of mine, and we’re working to do that in the Versatile Test Reactor, VTR, to ensure it comes with the highest standards in the next several years. The third priority that we have the infrastructure that’s nec- regard to safety and security and stan- is to establish and maintain a critical fuel essary to support the long-term success dards that our competitors, frankly, do cycle infrastructure, and I know that’s of of U.S. advanced nuclear technologies. not have or require. Regaining our global interest to several folks that are on the Additionally, many of these concepts will leadership through the export of our webinar today. So, I’m happy to discuss require high-assay, low-enriched uranium, nuclear energy technology will ensure that that in more detail as we get to the ques- HALEU, and we’re pursuing multiple path- our nonproliferation security and safety tion and answer session. ways for the availability of this fuel source. standards are adopted and maintained And the fourth priority we have is to The Nuclear Fuel Working Group report globally. enhance our global competitiveness. So, also recognizes the importance of having We’re moving forward to ensure we’re already seeing the fruits of our labor. a healthy operating fleet of reactors and that the United States regains its nuclear One SMR concept is undergoing license the market challenges that they are facing energy leadership building upon the review by the NRC, the Nuclear Regulatory today. The Department is investigating United States’ leadership in innovation Commission, and the first non-light water alternate sources of revenue for the exist- and advanced technologies. This will not advanced reactor has entered the NRC ing fleet, including, as I mentioned, through be easy and it will require a lot of work, license review process as well. So, it’s a the production of hydrogen. in particular, if we want to achieve these
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aggressive goals by 2030. I really appreci- in the United States has enjoyed—I would United States, fingers crossed, of rescind- ate your time in attending this session and, say, has had the luxury of not having to ing the current position of not supporting more importantly, for your dedication to change very quickly because we’ve got a and not financing nuclear projects abroad, these issues. And I very much look forward tried and true product that works well and once that hopefully gets reversed, then to our question and answer session. And working alongside our NRC partners is that might help with the financing piece, again, as was mentioned, I’m a materials well-regulated. We haven’t had the need right? So that should help. And we’re very, engineer, and so being able to speak to to change, but we’re in a different time very excited about that. you is certainly an extra special privilege now. And so, wanting to move very quickly, But we still in this country do not have for me to be with you today. So, thank you ensuring that the NRC also understands a permanent repository for used fuel. And very much. what the advanced reactor technologies so, I could not offer to other countries the look like and what is going to be different ability to take back fuel, because we really Mark Schanfein: about them, is really important. So, we don’t have someplace to put it perma- Rita, thank you for that. It’s really an maintain open communication with the nently. And so, to look at the option of recy- exciting time. So, for the first question, if NRC and work with them to ensure that cling and what falls under that umbrella is you could, Rita, what are your offices’ their staff and teams also understand what something that my team has started to do. recent achievements and priorities and the developers are working on. Those are So, I don’t have particular options to talk strategic initiatives for the coming decade, a couple of areas that I think are going to about today. I will say that we’re entertain- and how have they been evolving? be really important in the coming decade. ing a variety of options and a lot of things are on the table. And I think the last part Dr. Rita Baranwal: Larry Satkowiak: So, one of the objectives has been of that question, Larry, was about the RFP Rita, we have a question from the to certainly ensure that we continue to [request for proposal] for interim storage, audience. The person in the audience is support the existing fleet. The develop- and so that has been prepared and we wondering if you could discuss some of ment of accident-tolerant fuel and the hope to release that in the near future. the details of the reprocessing options installation of that fuel into commercial that your office will study, along with the Mark Schanfein: reactors has been a really important step status of the interim storage design RFP Thank you. We have another ques- to demonstrate that this type of fuel can that you discussed earlier. tion. What are the economic barriers not only benefit the existing fleet, but to conventional and advanced nuclear also advanced reactors that are going to Dr. Rita Baranwal: energy systems and how can policy over- be launched, hopefully in the next 3, 5, We’re really in the preliminary stages come those barriers? 7, 10 years. And so, it’s really important of looking at this. Let me back up and tell to be working on efforts that can benefit you why I’m very interested, not only just Dr. Rita Baranwal: in the near term as well as possibly also from a scientific standpoint. But if we really I’ll answer it two ways. One, if we’re in the long term. So, that’s one area. And want to be competitive globally, the United focused on deploying in the United States the other is, that I’m really proud of, is the States wants to be competitive in the and the other is overseas. So, I think to launch of the advanced reactor demo global landscape for nuclear reactor tech- deploy in the United States, we at the program. And what that entails is making nology. What is already being offered out moment are seeing a lot of competition awards to two different teams of develop- there to other countries from our compet- from economic natural gas. And so, we’re ers, supply chain vendors, utilities, univer- itors is not only top-notch technology, but competing with those market forces and sities, et cetera, of up to $80 million each, the ability to take back the fuel, once it’s that, frankly, is the reason why several to demonstrate their reactor concept in the used, so countries don’t necessarily have plants have shut down prematurely—it’s United States in the next 5 to 7 years. And to have a repository in-country for their because they just can’t keep up with the the reason why we’ve put this really tight, used fuel, and then also have attractive low price of natural gas in those markets. aggressive schedule out there, is because financing options. And so, with the recent So, for the United States, a policy change our competitors are moving ahead at a announcement from the DFC [Develop- that might put nuclear back on a level very, very fast pace. And while our industry ment Finance Corporation] here in the playing field with those different energy
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and electricity sources would be some- The second part was, what role do Dr. Rita Baranwal: thing that gives credit for being a clean SMRs play in that? What’s interesting about I think they do. And to be clear, I’m a energy source. The zero emissions credit SMRs…So, for those that aren’t familiar, stickler for being very specific. The S in that some states have given to their nuclear SMRs are defined as a reactor that’s 300 SMR, is just “small.” It means “small.” And plants, that’s one area. To deploy over- megawatts or smaller. And what’s great so, it’s just a size constraint. So, we have seas—I’m not saying they don’t exist, but I about that is that it offers communities and developers that are working on light water have not yet encountered a policy change countries the ability to have reactors that technology, but they’re small modular that needs to occur. We are working with meet their needs. And so, if it’s a smaller reactors. We also have developers that are several different countries and have exe- community that doesn’t necessarily need working on advanced technologies that cuted 123 Agreements, and what’s called a one-thousand-megawatt reactor, you are looking at molten salt technology con- an NC MOU, Nuclear Cooperation Memo can start to think about an SMR or if it’s cepts, that are looking at high temperature of Understanding. And so, we’re working an area that has never had nuclear tech- gas reactor concepts, that are looking at through all of that, but again, the financing nology and wants to ease into it, you can sodium-cooled or lead-cooled concepts piece is what we hear an area where we start with something that’s 60 megawatts that are in that size class. So SMRs are need to up our game, if you will. and then add onto it. SMRs are going to merely a size category. It includes existing be easier to construct because they’re light water type of technology, as well as Larry Satkowiak: modular, so they can be factory built and advanced concepts. This is actually a question from one of then shipped to the site. They’re going to our partners, ABACC. Sonia asks, “Within be easier to install because they have a Larry Satkowiak: the context of climate change, what is the smaller footprint. Our next question is circling back to place of nuclear energy and renewables The regulations around it, the emer- the whole idea of looking at recycling. in the energy matrix forecast?” Sort of a gency planning zone is anticipated to be And what factors are you considering follow on to that is, “And what emphasis is smaller as well. And so, there’s a lot of during this preliminary review of recy- being placed on SMRs?” benefits to that, but again, it’s based on cling options, for example? Is it primarily a technical review or are you considering Dr. Rita Baranwal: what the customer’s needs are. But it’s nonproliferation, economic public opinion, Let me answer the first part first. I really great to be able to have a variety of etc., as well? think nuclear energy—and this is not just sizes that we can offer to different types my personal opinion, there has been study of communities, be it a country who’s Dr. Rita Baranwal: looking to add onto their existing nuclear after study over the past, I’d say, at least So, it’s technical. Nonproliferation con- capability or a country that is looking to five years, that have shown that nuclear cerns are also being assessed, as well as enter this nuclear energy arena, because energy has to be part of any clean energy economic. And with the economic eye, we of the needs of their populations who may portfolio, either for a state in the United are looking at it to ensure that, certainly, not even have access to electricity at the States or countries around the world, conditions could be different 5 years from moment, for example. if they are working on a clean energy now, 10 years from now, than they are today portfolio that has targets to get to either Mark Schanfein: than they were 10 years ago. And so, I want zero emissions or a net carbon reduction Thank you. So, since we’re talking a broad scope of the economic conditions goal, be it by 2030, 2040, 2050—nuclear about SMRs and you’ve mentioned the that would need to exist for this to be favor- energy has to be part of that mix. And definition of being below 300 megawatts, able. Right now, it may not be favorable just I’m not advocating that it has to be 100 do you consider those to be advanced economics-wise, but that may not be the percent. I don’t think that’s reasonable. It reactors? And can you also elaborate on only driver. And so, we’re looking at that. At needs to be a part of that energy portfolio what DOE is doing to support SMR designs the moment, our input for the nonprolifera- and there’s room for other players, cer- and their vendors? And do you think they tion side is also taking into account some tainly. But you cannot get to 100 percent have bipartisan support? public opinion, but we have not put a lot of carbon free or emissions free without our emphasis on that. But that’s certainly one of industry being part of that mix. the facets that we will be looking at.
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Mark Schanfein: fund is the Industry Funding Opportunity or that the person in the question asked There’s another question we have. Announcement, the IFOA, wherein com- about. And so, while some of these com- This really concerns the IAEA. Any eligible panies and teams can apply for funding panies may not know to answer those facilities lists that we have as a voluntary on a regular basis and get awarded based questions or know to address them in their state, will DOE advocate for the inclusion on the technology level of their applica- designs, we are trying to, the best that of all these new reactor projects, like the tion. Be it an 80-20 cost share, that the 80 we can, make sure that that information VTR, New Scale, or Aurora on this list? percent is funded by the government or is available. Those experts in our national a 50-50 cost share, if it’s more a mature lab complex in the United States can be Dr. Rita Baranwal: technology. So, 50 percent is funded by accessed, should they not know where to Can you explain what the list is? the government, and the other 50 is by the go for those answers. Mark Schanfein: company of the host team. We have an initiative in DOE called GAIN—Gateway for Accelerated Inno- So, the eligible facility list is one that Larry Satkowiak: vation and Nuclear. One of the main comes from NRC, and it basically offers up Yes. We have another question again purposes is to connect private nuclear to the IAEA the ability to select different from one of our overseas colleagues at the technology developers with the capabili- facilities within the United States govern- IAEA. I’ll interpret the question if I under- ties and the expertise at the national lab- ment for potential application of IAEA safe- stand it correctly: “In the new designs that oratories. And certainly, the fuel cycle was guards. So, the question is whether DOE are being considered, are you pressing one aspect of that. supports having these different reactors the designers, the companies on how on such a list? they will look at the whole fuel cycle? For Mark Schanfein: Dr. Rita Baranwal: example, the impact on the front end, We have another question that fits the enrichment, the recycled fuel, the into the last one—one piece of what Larry I am not really familiar with the list fuel fabrication, the backend, what back- mentioned. And we’ve seen this with a lot and I’m not familiar with the implications of end products there are, etc., the spent of ongoing work and also in terms of differ- being on such a list. If it means that there’s fuel forms, the required storage tanks for ent kinds of recycling approaches. But is additional scrutiny or safeguards that get those spent fuel storms, and are…”— this there a timescale? Do you think that there put on to the technologies, again, I’m not is a long, involved question. Are you con- is a timescale for a recycling demonstra- well read in this area. But I would trust that sidering repository or recycle? There’s a tion project in the U.S.? if a concept is NRC-regulated that also lot there. Pick and choose what you would meets the IAEA safeguard standards. And like to answer right now. Dr. Rita Baranwal: so, I think that would certainly be a good I have not given that thought just yet. thing, but again, I can’t speak to that defin- Dr. Rita Baranwal: So, I can’t give you a timescale now. Again, itively. I’m not well versed enough on it. Okay. It’s perhaps coincidental or we’re just starting to look at this or relook That’s where we have to leave it. Can I go prophetic that you use the word answer, at it, I guess, since I’ve been in this office. back to the previous question? I think I did because we have just started an initiative So, there’s a lot of unknown, certainly. I not answer about the support that we have that is called ANSWER, A-N-S-W-E-R, that think it’s something that we do need to from Congress for SMR development. And is being led out of Argonne National Lab have an understanding of if we really do it includes some of the companies that you to look at exactly this, from cradle to grave, want to be competitive worldwide. just mentioned Mark, in this question. to ensure that not only are the technology We are seeing good bipartisan developers developing their designs, but Mark Schanfein: Thank you. support for research and development in we have a very heavy nonproliferation the advanced SMR space. And so, that’s security and safeguards team of folks also Larry Satkowiak: another area that’s very exciting. And it’s working with not only the lab folks, but The next question is really looking at not just one company or one technol- more importantly, I think, the developers newcomers. For example, some countries ogy class, it’s across the board. And so, to ensure that they are considering all of in Africa, and perhaps Asia, could benefit one of the programs that we continue to those aspects that you just mentioned, from SMRs, especially because of their
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geography or demographic distribution. Mark Schanfein: Dr. Rita Baranwal: So, the concern here is, in the coopera- I think the way I would interpret it this I have not seen that. The question is, tion to help the newcomer states, are they is: For example, you have a leadership does the existence of a 123 Agreement also considering things like safeguards, role for nuclear energy. Then there’s the prohibit us from competing worldwide? I security, and safety when engaging nonproliferation side of whether it’s the don’t think so. newcomers? government or the public, and whether there may be some mistrust or a need for Larry Satkowiak: Dr. Rita Baranwal: That’s the understanding. better communication between those dif- Yes. That’s the short answer. Yes. ferent elements. Those are certainly being considered Dr. Rita Baranwal: and shared. Those are requirements for Dr. Rita Baranwal: I think having those agreements in place set the expectations that we expect the cost of admission. And so, those are Since I’ve been in this office, I have of the receiving country our expectations being shared and we in my office are regular meetings and phone calls with my for operation, for safety, our nonpro stan- putting together what, for the moment, is nonpro counterparts. And so, I think that dards. And so, once those are in writing, being labeled a nuclear concierge, in that was the first step, was to make sure that I think it’s a good thing to have those in countries that are looking to purchase and we’re talking often. And then if we don’t writing and be understood. operate nuclear power plants. If you don’t have anything to chat about during one of know where to go, or how do you even our biweekly meetings, we don’t have the Mark Schanfein: start, navigating the U.S. government is meeting. But the fact that that avenue is Another question has to do with the certainly a very, I’ll say, a sticky task, right? there, I get together with my counterpart U.S. International Development Finance So, putting together a how-to, a flow chart, twice a month, and then our teams get Corporation. They recently said they plan a roadmap on how to navigate and work together once a month. And so, we’ve to update their procedures to include with us and how we can help them, and all got a full agenda of items we talk about, financing for nuclear power. So how sig- the things that would need to be consid- that heads up, this thing’s coming down nificant of a change will this be for U.S. ered, including the items you mentioned, the pike or we’re going to meet with this exports of nuclear power plants? but also capacity-building. And so, there’s country, and these are the hot topic issues. a lot of areas that we’re trying to assist with So perhaps our offices were not so com- Dr. Rita Baranwal: and offer assistance. And if the question municative in the past, but I do feel that we So, the public comment period for is really getting at, are we lowering our have a very good relationship right now. that change closed on Friday. So now we standards or sacrificing something? The And it really does come down to talking are waiting for, I guess, digestion of what answer to that is no. about what we’re working on and what the comments are, and then for, hopefully, our concerns are. And we do air our griev- the policy to actually change. The impact Mark Schanfein: ances, if you will. And there are issues that of that policy change, I think, is going to be We have another question on how we don’t agree on, but we certainly under- really favorable for developers because can we improve the relationship and infor- stand each other’s position. financing options are one major sticking mation sharing between nuclear energy point from us being more competitive and nonproliferation interest when think- Larry Satkowiak: around the world and competing with ing about U.S. domestic pursuit of nuclear Yes. And there is another question state-owned enterprises. energy and support for U.S. exports? here, more on the policy side then the There seemed to be some challenges in technical side: “Do you believe that the Larry Satkowiak: this area. U.S. policy on 123 Agreements hampers So, there’s, again, another question the ability for American vendors to about SMRs that is somewhat interesting: Dr. Rita Baranwal: compete with other vendors from other “Is it possible to streamline/coordinate cer- Are they getting at, is there a limited countries?” tification of SMR designs with other coun- supply? tries?” I guess the NRC interacting with the regulatory agencies of other countries in
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order to bring down the cost of implement- ceasing reprocessing. And the question is, to sell a turnkey reactor concept, an entire ing these new designs for the first time in what tactical, nonproliferation, economic, package that my competitors are offering new countries, both nuclear newcomers and political factors would cause the U.S. around the world, fuel take-back has to be and countries, perhaps like the United to change that position?” part of that option. And if I want to offer fuel Kingdom. take-back, I need to do something with it. I Dr. Rita Baranwal: don’t have a repository to store it in at the I’m going to really give a simple Dr. Rita Baranwal: moment, and recycling is another option to Are they talking about regulatory answer to the first part. And recycling is look at. harmonization? an umbrella of which reprocessing is one Interim storage, as we talked about part of, so recycling covers reprocessing. earlier, is certainly a third avenue. But Larry Satkowiak: The reason I’m talking about recycling is, I think so. I think that’s what they’re again, in my heart of hearts, I feel we can certainly you do have to reprocess the trying to get at. reuse this slightly used fuel. And so, let’s fuel, but then I want to reuse it, right? I look at that as an option as well, so that we don’t want to just extract different piece Dr. Rita Baranwal: can compete globally. There is a lot of activity on this. One parts from that used fuel. I want to reuse it example that I want to point to is the MOU for additional commercial applications. So Mark Schanfein: that was recently signed between CNSC that all falls under the recycling umbrella. Thank you. What was the second part? in Canada and the U.S. NRC. And so there Larry Satkowiak: certainly is an effort afoot to want to col- Mark Schanfein: Dr. Baranwal, I wanted to thank you. laborate and implement best practices The second part was a pretty chal- And I was wondering if you had any addi- around regulation of reactors and certainly lenging question. tional final remarks that you’d like to make of SMRs and new reactor technologies, before we close out the session. and not have to reinvent the wheel, if you Dr. Rita Baranwal: will. And so, a lot of those discussions are I forgot it. Dr. Rita Baranwal: occurring for countries that we have been I just want to thank all of you for having in conversations with. Most of them have a Mark Schanfein: me, and all of you who are participating, The U.S. set the standard on ceasing very robust regulatory body, an impressive I wish you continued good health and or reprocessing. And now the question is, regulatory body, already in place. And cer- stay safe. And I very much look forward what tactical nonproliferation, economic, tainly, we have offered to them the ability to seeing all of you in person at the next and political factors would cause the U.S. to interact with our NRC and answer ques- conference. to change this position? tions and things like that. Regulatory har- monization is something that is very much Mark Schanfein: Dr. Rita Baranwal: Okay. Thank you very much. It was being discussed worldwide, and it’s being So, the first piece has been to talk great. We’ve gotten more questions brought up in venues such as IFNEC [Inter- about it. And the first ask I had of my team pouring in, but we’re running out of time. national Framework for Nuclear Energy that’s looking at this is: tell me why I cannot It’s certainly an exciting time for nuclear Cooperation] and other event venues like do this right now, show me the policy or energy. I wanted to thank Larry for that, where we have multinational partici- the law, or the statute that says we can’t do co-moderating, Falcon for their support, pation and several different topics that will this right now. And we haven’t found that and especially the audience for joining us. affect not just one country or a handful of that exists. So, it’s a position. It’s a posture I wish everyone a good day. Enjoy the rest countries, but many countries. that we have, and that’s fine. But the first of the conference. We are adjourned. Mark Schanfein: was, am I asking to do the impossible? And that is not necessarily the case. So Another question here: “What’s the that was step one. The next one is, what’s difference between recycling and repro- the motivator to be looking at this? And cessing? The U.S. set a positive nonpro- it’s a commercial driver. It’s that, if I want liferation standard over 40 years ago by
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JNMM Roundtable 61st Annual Meeting Featured Distinguished Speakers: Ambassador Gustavo Zlauvinen President-Designate of the 10th NPT Review Conference Massimo Aparo Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Safeguards, International Atomic Energy Agency
Markku Koskelo: tenure at DDG Safeguards. Mr. Aparo has transcribed correctly. If the Plenary speak- For those of you who are new to this successfully launched a number of initia- ers make changes to their answers, please venue, my name is Markku Koskelo. I am tives aimed at improving the efficiency make sure that your questions match. And the current Technical Editor of the Journal and effectiveness of safeguards, includ- once we have all of that in writing, we will of Nuclear Materials Management for the ing the SLA improvement project, among publish this in a future issue of the JNMM. INMM. I work for Aquila Technologies Group other internationally-focused projects. He We normally have this in a physical in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Before has been an advocate for transparency Roundtable, and I ask the person to my left we get into the actual questions, let me across the department and with member to start introducing themselves. However, introduce our distinguished guests, even states and the recently published and since we are in a virtual situation, I did though Ambassador Zlauvinen spoke this newly-formatted Safeguards Implemen- send out a document where I suggested morning and was introduced. Perhaps not tation Report for 2019, and was highly an order in which people would introduce everyone was there. Thank you very much praised for this effort. Recently, Mr. Aparo themselves. If you would do that briefly for your talk and very interesting thoughts led that safeguard staff through a remote and mention two things: one is your role for all of us. Welcome to this Roundtable working period due to COVID-19, ensur- in the INMM, and whatever you wish to say event. Ambassador Zlauvinen is the Pres- ing that all critical activities were able to briefly about your day job. And then we ident-Designate of the 10th NPT Review continue, despite the global pandemic. He will launch into the questions in the same Conference. Before taking up this role, he will speak for us tomorrow morning, and I order. And if there’s someone who wishes has served as the Deputy Foreign Minis- encourage all of you to attend his Plenary to pass on their turn in the question, then ter, the Undersecretary of State for Foreign talk tomorrow. Beyond the introductions, let’s do that. So, with that, Carrie, if you Policy, and the Director of International let me get a couple of housekeeping would kick off the introductions. Organizations, all in the Ministry of Foreign issues out of the way. Carrie Mathews: Affairs of Argentina. He was twice posted Again, for those of you who are not Hi everyone. Thank you, Markku and to the U.N. system as the Representative familiar with this venue, this is being thank you, Max and Ambassador Zlau- of the Director General of the IAEA to the recorded. This event has always been vinen for being with us today. I’m Carrie United Nations in New York, and the Chef recorded for a transcript of this event that Mathews. I’m the Technical Program Chair de Cabinet to the Executive Chairman of will be published in a future issue of the of the INMM and the Deputy Chair of the the United Nations Special Committee JNMM and the protocol is that our distin- Annual Meeting Committee. And I work at on Disarmament of Iraq or UNSCOM, and guished guests will get the first chance Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. served as Argentina’s Alternate Represen- to review that transcript. And if there is tative to IAEA in Vienna, and as Director anything that they do not want published Cary Crawford: for International Affairs of the Argentine in writing, they have the right to edit that I’m Cary Crawford, the current Presi- National Space Agency. transcript. Once they have edited their dent of the INMM. I’m a Program Manager Mr. Massimo Aparo is the Deputy transcript, it will be sent to everyone who at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and have Director General and Head of the Depart- asked questions and they are allowed been for 27-plus years in the Nuclear Safe- ment of Safeguards at the IAEA during his to make sure that their questions are guards and Security Field. And it’s good to
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have our guests. Thanks for joining us. occasionally. I was at the IAEA as a staff Maite Unzaga: member from 1989 through 1993 in the Good morning, everyone. I’m from Susan Pepper: System Study Section in the Department Argentina and I’m also on the team sup- Hi, I’m Susan Pepper. I’m the current of Safeguards, and I assist you, Markku, in porting President-Designate Ambassador Vice President of the INMM and I work at technically editing the Journal. Zlauvinen. Brookhaven National Laboratory where I’m the Chair of the Nonproliferation and Dick Donovan: Deanna Bright: National Security Department. I’m Dick Donovan. I’ve been with The Deanna Bright. I support the JNMM U.S. Department of Energy since the mid- and in an Administrative role for INMM in James Andre: 1980s. And I’m currently the Safeguards general. I’m typically involved with mem- Awesome. Jim Andre. I’m currently a and Security Senior Advisor for the Office bership committees and chapters. Member At Large on the INMM Executive of Enterprise Assessment, switching Committee and I work at the Pacific North- between, among other things, overseas Elizabeth Franks: west National Lab. Department of Energy, safeguard and Hi everyone, I’m Elizabeth Franks. I’m the Executive Director for the INMM since Irmgard Niemeyer: security programs. November, working with the team at AH Hello, Irmgard Niemeyer, I’m the Chair Rian Bahran: Headquarters and the Executive Commit- of the International Safeguards Technical Hi, Rian Bahran. I’m an Associate tee and the other committees to oversee Division and I work in Forschungszentrum Editor for the Journal. As a day job, I’m a all the day-to-day operations. And, of Juelich, Germany, being the Head of the scientist at Los Alamos National Labora- course, the meetings and the Journal for Nuclear Safeguards and Security Division. tory currently on assignment in Washing- INMM. Thank you. ton, D.C. at the Department of Defense. Lisa Howard-Fusco: Corey Hinderstein: Jack Jekowski: I am Lisa Howard-Fusco and I work I’m Corey Hinderstein. I’m Vice Presi- I’m Jack Jekowski. I’m the Historian primarily with the Journal in a Managing dent for International Fuel Cycle Strategies for the Institute and I’m a Principal Partner Editor role where I collect all the content, at the Nuclear Threat Initiative and at the with Innovative Technology Partnerships. make sure it looks good, edit it, and get INMM. I am the Immediate Past President. We do national security work for DOE and it designed and uploaded. That’s pretty Sarah Frazar: NNSA and other federal agencies. much my function and I work very closely with Deanna. Hi, I’m Sarah Frazar from the Pacific Lawrence Satkowiak: Northwest National Laboratory. I lead the I’m Larry Satkowiak. I’m the INMM Markku Koskelo: Public Relations and Outreach Subcom- Annual Meeting Committee Chair. And as Well, thank you. Ambassador Zlau- mittee for the Communications Committee a day job, I run the nonproliferation pro- vinen, as I was listening to your talk this on INMM. grams at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. morning, I had at least a half a dozen questions that I would love to ask, myself. Dr. Alicia Swift: Lisa Hilliard: Hi, I’m Dr. Alicia Swift, I’m an Associate However, in the interest of time, since we I’m Lisa Hilliard, and I’m supporting Editor of the JNMM. And for my day job, do have limited time and I would very Ambassador Zlauvinen for the NPT Review I am a Program Manager at the Consoli- much like to give everyone on this event Conference. dated Nuclear Security, which operates in an opportunity to ask their questions, let the National Security Complex, where I’m Megan Porter: me yield the floor. Cary? based, as well as Pantex Plants. My name is Megan Porter. I am the Cary Crawford: Communications Chair for the INMM now, Sorry Markku. I’ll pass for now and Leslie Fishbone: and I work directly with Max as a Commu- I’m Les Fishbone. I’m retired from maybe circle back later if that’s okay with nication Officer in Safeguards. Brookhaven National Laboratory, though I you. still keep a hand in things as a consultant
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Susan Pepper: Massimo has a key responsibility approach. I will talk to my colleagues at the This might be a question that’s better from his position at the IAEA, but as I said U.N. Office of Disarmament Affairs, which suited for the end of the discussion, but today in my Plenary statement, we need has a program for youth in disarmament, it’s one that’s on my mind, and for Max’s to consider how we can achieve better to see whether they have something more benefit and at the end of the Opening and greater access to nuclear applications coordinated or a collaboration between Plenary today. Administrator Gordon-Ha- which are so important in the daily life institutions—public institutions, civil gerty challenged the INMM to promote of many people around the world. A big society, international organizations, and STEM and policy education in the hopes of challenge is to create the conditions under industry—to work on this. It’s something creating a larger pool of candidates for the which the next generation of practitioners, that we all have to work on together. National Nuclear Security Administration’s experts, leaders, and diplomats are going Massimo Aparo: human resources needs. Those human to be involved, engaged, and get their first If I may add something more to what resources needs pretty much cover the experiences in all these issues. I believe the Ambassador said, very correctly. We same needs as the INMM’s community that there are many ways to engage and generally face a problem that didn’t exist and the IAEA’s community. So, I was won- reach out to the next generation through at this level 30, 40 years ago. Nuclear dering, actually, if this could be a question the INMM, with different projects, and also technology and nuclear energy is not a for both DDG Aparo and Ambassador through the gender champions in nuclear fear like it was in the 60s and the 70s. Zlauvinen. How would you suggest that policy initiative and your gender forum. Even so, already the number of the INMM become involved in promoting But we also need to look at how to attract people, especially the younger generation education in these areas with the hope of the younger generation to nuclear appli- who are approaching the nuclear field, creating a larger candidate pool? cations. In my experience, when I have are quite limited. And therefore, because the opportunity to talk to them, for many nonproliferation and nuclear security is Ambassador Zlauvinen: younger people nuclear matters seem to just a branch of the nuclear field, we find Thank you. And before addressing be so far from their daily life, unfortunately, ourselves with a lot of problems finding your questions Susan, let me express how unless they have the dedication to deal the right candidates for the number of dif- delighted and honored I am to share this with these issues. So, we have to help ferent jobs. In addition to that, our Direc- Roundtable with so many distinguished make that connection with the next gener- tor General has stressed the need and and experienced colleagues. I have to ation—the nuclear industry may be helpful the Agency’s objective to reach gender say, after hearing about your day jobs, the in this regard with opportunities like intern- equality. That’s why he has started the INMM, and your backgrounds, it’s almost a ships and/or mentor programs. Marie-Curie Fellowship to attract the young reflection of what, in one way or another, And I don’t know whether the INMM generation to the area of the Nuclear Field I also experienced firsthand or second- offers mentoring opportunities, but and Nuclear Technology. hand throughout my 34-year career. Since that could be something to look at. For I think this kind of initiative is very I joined the Foreign Service back in 1987, example, in Argentina, in the Foreign Min- important, specifically because, as the I’ve been dealing with nuclear disarma- istry, 30 or 31 years ago, I had the oppor- Ambassador was saying, if you don’t have ment and nonproliferation issues. It’s an tunity to mentor a young intern, and now a specific dedication for these kinds of honor and a privilege, but also an amazing she is responsible for defining Argenti- fields, like nonproliferation or nuclear opportunity for me to be with you today na’s policy on nuclear non-proliferation security, most of the younger generations not only to try to answer your questions, and nuclear disarmament. I think there don’t understand what we are talking but also to pick your brains in the sense could be many, many opportunities, and I about. And both INMM and JNMM have of what else we can do as a community believe that the IAEA is also looking into their entities in this field. They have a very to achieve the shared goals that are this, and the European Union and others important responsibility to help in increas- enshrined in the NPT and ensure we are as well. The next question may be how to ing the number of people represented well positioned to keep the nonprolifer- coordinate the different efforts of individ- from the younger generations, an interest ation regime alive and healthy into the ual organizations and institutions. I may be in this field. But it would be important to future. wrong, but I haven’t seen a coordinated have a more coordinated program, as the
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Ambassador was saying, to have a more that you need to look into realizing those course, when you need the regulatory structured approach. projects. authority that can cover all the different However, I wouldn’t be so negative to tasks of the three S’s—safety, security, and James Andre: say that it cannot be done. If I look back safeguards—we have different initiatives One for the Ambassador. Ambas- into my own country’s history in the nuclear at various levels, exactly to address these sador, I appreciated your comments this field, some 40 to 50 years ago, probably things. We are also, from the safeguards morning regarding the third pillar of the Argentina was not on the short list of coun- point of view, launching a new project to NPT, specifically the peaceful use of tries that were going to be developing an improve the capability of the state regu- nuclear energy. And I’m curious about your advanced nuclear program. I believe that latory authority with regard to safeguards perspective on the role the NPT can play 50, 60, or 70 years ago, it was also only implementation. in the development and implementation about—aside of the P5 or the Big Five, I think that a number of countries of advanced reactor designs. We’re going there were Germany, Japan, South Korea, may have the ambition to develop nuclear to hear about that this week, especially and few others. No one thought that a technology and use nuclear energy. But a in regard to developing nations where country like Argentina, Brazil, or others lot needs to be done to reach this level energy security is an issue, but they may were going to manage to put together of maturity; that would allow them to prop- not have a mature regulatory framework the complex system, to be maintained erly take advantage of these things. But I or even a modernized grid that can accept over time, necessary to develop a decent think that there is a general effort in the the nuclear technologies. nuclear program. world. My only point is that I don’t think Ambassador Zlauvinen: And yet, Argentina, as well as Brazil that the new generational reactor, like a Thank you, Jim. As I mentioned and others, have proven that, even small modular reactor, would change the this morning, there is an important and with limited human and technological need of a country to have a proper infra- direct linkage between the NPT pillars of resources, when you have that political structure in terms of regulatory authority, nonproliferation and access to peaceful will, you can do it over time. Today in my in terms of the generation of scientists and nuclear applications, including nuclear own country, for example, not only do we the researchers and technicians that can energy. The question of the new gener- have 3 nuclear power stations, we have support this kind of ambition. Thank you. 10-plus small nuclear research reactors. ation of reactors is something that may Irmgard Niemeyer: be farfetched for many countries. There They’re working on a project for a small I have questions for both distin- are only a few of the most advanced, in middle-sized power generation reactor, guished speakers. Ambassador, as you nuclear terms, countries that currently the CAREM. So, Argentina is an example pointed out, postponements of events access that technology, but I believe that that you shouldn’t limit your concept of like the RevCon usually come with some the more the demand for energy supply, which countries can develop this type extra time for the stakeholders involved, the more countries will be looking into of sophisticated technologies, to only and you are hoping, certainly not without those options. But you correctly pointed the top 20 or 25 countries in the world. good reason, that NPT State Parties would out that it will be almost impossible for a If well-managed, well-encouraged, and use this additional time to raise aware- country without a nuclear regulatory body, under control, other countries can develop ness on the opportunities of the NPT for the nuclear infrastructure, the know-how, and benefit from the use of these technol- every country, particularly when it comes to go into such a project. ogies; in particular, the advanced genera- to peaceful use of nuclear energy. Do you Again, I will resort back to the IAEA tion of reactors that you mentioned. I don’t feel that for other RevCon related discus- in the sense that they’re also doing a lot know if Massimo can also just amplify a bit sions and initiatives, the momentum of in nuclear applications to help countries more on that. Thank you. early this year may be lost? And if I may learn how to start building up and develop- Massimo Aparo: modify this question slightly for the DDG— ing their own nuclear framework, including Well, he said already everything from as I guess you didn’t even have time to nuclear regulatory bodies, but also the— our point of view. Even in this case, we think about what to do with some potential sorry to use this expression—the “critical are trying to make an effort to improve extra time—in terms of initiatives foreseen mass” of nuclear scientists and technicians from our side, the area of safeguards. Of for early this year, what has probably lost
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momentum due to the COVID-19 pan- situation could be today had the negoti- and commemorate this important mile- demic? Thank you. ation 25 years ago concluded that it was stone. The most important point that I see better to extend the Treaty for another in what Gustavo said is that what we have Ambassador Zlauvinen: 25 years—to 2020. The NPT would have to do is to try to see this delay as an oppor- As I said this morning, it is disappoint- ceased to exist legally this year or negotia- tunity. Now, when you look at the 1995 ing that the 10th Review Conference did tors would have been working very hard to Review Conference, which at the time was not and probably is not going to take place extend the NPT for, I don’t know, another extended indefinitely, the political situation in 2020 due to COVID-19. This year marks 25 years, indefinitely, 50 years, 1 year? Or at that time was completely different from a milestone: the 50th anniversary of the what if, in those negotiations, they would what we have now. And it was a much entry into force of the NPT. And despite the have failed to reach agreement? My view, more optimistic view of how the world expected challenges, I think many were my personal view, and taking into account was evolving. And I think that while the looking forward to this Review Conference the current international security environ- decision to have an indefinite extension of to commemorate and recognize that this ment, I believe that today it would have the treaty may sometimes be criticized, it Treaty—although some critics may call it been very difficult to reach agreement has provided a very important element for unbalanced, imperfect, even outdated— to extend the Treaty. So, we could have world peace. but that this Treaty has served the inter- been in a much worse situation had our Maybe this is an opportunity for us to national community extremely well for 50 predecessors 25 years ago not decided rethink certain aspects of the complete years. And so far, it’s the only international to extend the Treaty indefinitely. world system after the impact of the ter- global treaty on this issue that we have, The extra time that we have before rible impact of the pandemic, which may with non-nuclear weapons states and all the Review Conference due to the pan- allow us to reconsider certain aspects. five nuclear weapons states in the same demic also presents additional challenges Then, it’s true that it’s disappointing not treaty. And that it also encompasses the because we cannot meet in person, and to have this Review Conference of the three pillars, as we have discussed: non- it is never the same to conduct a formal Non-Proliferation Treaty. proliferation, nuclear disarmament, and consultation with delegations in a virtual But there were also a number of neg- peaceful uses. When you look back into manner rather than person-to-person. ative aspects in the period leading up to the history of the Treaty and you see how Also, understandably, the pandemic is at 2020 in terms of nonproliferation. When I difficult it was to reach agreement when the top of the list in priority for all govern- was at an event in Moscow in October last the Treaty was negotiated, it is amazing ments, so we also have a challenge to year, there was a general pessimism on that the negotiators saw the big picture. keep momentum on the NPT. But, if we use what the nonproliferation Review Confer- But perhaps even more interesting is to this extra time to work very closely with an ence could bring. People were even think- look at 25 years ago, when negotiators open mind and try to understand all posi- ing that it could be the starting point of a met in New York to discuss the extension tions, we may have a better chance when- collapse. Let’s forget about the fact that of the Treaty. Many take for granted that it ever we meet at the Review Conference we did not have the occasion to celebrate was easy to extend it indefinitely, and it was for a better outcome. What that outcome an important event. Instead, let’s think not. There were other options, including a may look like, I don’t know. It is not up to how we can improve our effort in nonpro- proposal to extend the Treaty for another me to decide, it’s up to the States Parties, liferation. This is what I hope the member 25 years. In the end, the view to extend it and we may not know until the very last states will do in this situation, taking into indefinitely prevailed along with the other day of the Review Conference. So, sorry consideration all the other aspects of this decisions in the 1995 Review Conference, for, again, a long answer to your question, pandemic. such as the recommitment by the nuclear but it’s a very complex one. weapons states to nuclear disarmament, Corey Hinderstein: the resolution on the Nuclear Weapons Massimo Aparo: My question is really about the pos- Free Zone in the Middle East and others, If I may add something. Gustavo itives of COVID-19, which is hard to think but it was extended indefinitely. describes the situation perfectly and I fully about, but what I’m interested in is the idea Now, let’s think for a moment what agree with him, that it’s disappointing that that we may be learning lessons from the would have happened, or what the we could not have this Review Conference restrictions that we’re currently operating
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under. And so, my question to DDG Aparo We can expect the demand from the very beginning. is, are there any efficiencies, improve- member states to increase in this respect It’s too early to say whether the new ments to process, or engagements that even while they regard our work as very reality that forces us to interact virtually, may actually follow beyond this current important. Now, this will have an impact on not personally, is going to have an impact situation and help with the effective imple- our budget. So, we need to have a flexible on the way that diplomats work. You also mentation of safeguards going forward? budget. have to take into account the varying And for Ambassador Zlauvinen, similarly: On the other side, we also have rec- levels of technology, communication so much of diplomacy is meeting people ognized how important is an IT infrastruc- capabilities, and platforms in many states face to face, and going to capitals and ture, to be able to cope in a most agile and governments. I have proposed to the going to conferences, etc. And I’m won- way, in difficult situations. So, we have regional groups of the NPT to maybe con- dering if there is any kind of skill devel- to balance our capability to improve effi- sider the possibility of having the Review opment or evolution of that diplomatic ciency and to reduce certain costs with Conference in a hybrid mode. I have to say process that can come out of the current our objective to improve certain aspects that a large majority initially rejected that environment and make us all more effec- of our infrastructure that can help us in noting that their own capitals don’t have tive as we go forward? Thank you. facing a difficult situation, like the one we the capability to fully participate through are experiencing under COVID-19. video conferences. Some very important Markku Koskelo: States Parties also made it clear to me Max, would you? That was the first Ambassador Zlauvinen: on an individual basis that they want to part of the question. Would you please Thank you. I think that Massimo has have a full-fledged, traditional, face-to- take the first answer? touched upon exactly the critical issue in face meeting because of the relevance this regard, in the sense of the way we of the issues at hand during the Review Massimo Aparo : diplomats have conducted our business We have to say that this period of Conference. Massimo mentioned non- since the very beginning of our profes- pandemic forces us to operate completely proliferation issues, and we have at least sion, the Thirty Year’s War I think it was, different than before, as you can imagine. one particular one that is going to be a when the first emissary was sent to nego- I have to say that despite a number of diffi- big challenge at the Review Conference, tiate a peace treaty. Since then, one way culties we’ve been able to implement most but there are others. We will see whether or another, diplomats have been meeting of our critical activities around the world. the circumstances will force everyone to face to face, to discuss sometimes tough For the first month of lockdown we only accept hybrid or virtual meetings. For the issues. Our work depends very much on had about five percent of staff physically in time being I don’t see that consensus, but knowing the personalities of our coun- the office, which has now risen to about 10 if this new reality will continue for many terparts, building trust, and knowing how percent, with the rest working from home. more months—I hope not—we may be to work through differences of opinions. And with all the limitations the pandemic forced to accept that. Sometimes we manage to achieve that; has imposed on traveling, accessing facili- sometimes we don’t. You cannot replace Markku Koskelo: ties, and also with the challenges in terms that person-to-person interaction on a Thank you. Before we move on to the of safety for our staff and for the operator video or virtual platform, but we have been next question I see Brian Boyer has joined of the nuclear facility, we have learned to forced to try. So far, I understand that all us a little late. Brian, would you introduce cope. We have been forced to work in a the meetings, at least at the U.N., including yourself and what is your role in the INMM different situation, where we had to limit the Security Council meetings, are being and what is your day job? certain aspects of our activities and focus held virtually, and do not reach the level of on the most important element of our negotiations that person-to-person meet- Brian Boyer: business. My name is Brian Boyer, I am the Asso- ings provide. I don’t know at the IAEA. I And I think this is something that can ciate Technical Editor. I assist Markku in understand that the Board of Governors help us in looking at how we can find putting together the JNMM for the reviews was meeting, or was going to meet virtu- efficiencies, looking exactly to this experi- and making sure that the Journal quality is ally, but with some in-person participation. ence in order to be as efficient as possible. what we want, and continue to encourage So, it could be a hybrid approach at the
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people to contribute to JNMM. Right now, a face-to-face, direct presence in order to morning, at the Review Conference. Based my day job is at the International Atomic be able to cover all the different aspects. on my consultations with the States Parties Energy Agency, where I am in the Depart- In this situation, the only thing that we can I got the sense that there is a growing frus- ment of Nuclear Energy, where I am the do is to increase our transparency. This is tration by a large number of States Parties section head of In-Pro, Innovative Nuclear what the Agency is trying to do. due to what they consider as lack of prog- Project. So, we’re looking at innovative You can see that we recently held the ress—actual, tangible, concrete actions reactors, innovative fuel cycles, evaluating very first Board of Governors where the towards nuclear disarmament. fuel cycles. It’s a very interesting and excit- member states didn’t sit in the same room. You may recall that at the 1995, then ing experience right now. So, thank you. They only saw themselves via a video virtual 2000, and 2010 Review Conferences link. This increased the relevant information there have been commitments or practical Sarah Frazar: that they wanted to distribute to the differ- steps to move on nuclear disarmament. Thanks very much for entertaining this ent member states, so they could better There are diverging views, and I can sense question. It’s a little bit different from the understand the activity that the Agency had a growing frustration that progress has not ones that were raised previously. Public been carrying out in this format. The other been as rapid as those delegations may relations and outreach play a really critical aspect, again a part of the DG’s approach, have wished. Therefore, they’re pushing role in any organization’s impact on their is to increase our level of communication to have a recommitment of those steps in mission and their overall sustainability, with the member states, our way of reach- the next Review Conference, or the adop- and we’re at a really critical time when our ing out to the different member states and tion of new commitments. interactions with the stakeholder commu- those other entities that are not a traditional The Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) nity within safeguards has been impacted interface, to help the agency to cope with recently has been working on those significantly. And I’m curious if you had this difficult situation. issues. I think they have identified three suggestions on areas that we might or four areas where they think that the focus on when crafting a public relations Leslie Fishbone: Review Conference could work, in par- strategy? How might we think about that Okay. So, this is a question for both ticular, related to nuclear risk reduction to ensure that INMM as the safeguards the Ambassador and the DDG. Mr. Ambas- and how the nuclear weapons states and professional organization is prepared to sador, do you see any possibility that others can work in the future, including help its membership meet the safeguards the conference will address in detail any transparency regarding nuclear strategies challenges of the future, and also highlight further moves toward the disarmament and arsenals, and so forth. And I think the the work that the agency is doing in this pillar? One possibility that’s been dis- NTI has also done some work on what you regard? Do you have thoughts on that? cussed in the past is a convention on lim- mentioned, fissile material management, iting the production of this material, which including a possible convention or treaty Ambassador Zlauvinen: would mainly be before the Conference I think I will leave it to Max. on the prohibition of the production of on Disarmament, but perhaps the Review fissile materials. Conference could make a strong recom- Massimo Aparo: I’m not in a position to say whether mendation on this. And Mr. Aparo, if that That’s a very difficult situation. I mean that particular issue is going to be raised were to come to pass, how long might it I think that the lack of interaction or the during the Review Conference, and if it take the IAEA, if it were designated as the reduction of the interaction makes our is, whether it’s going to have consensus verifying organization, to build up its staff work much more difficult, apart from the or large support. It is a very complex ini- to verify something like that? fact that our inspection activity had to tiative, not only from the technical point continue even in this situation; even our Ambassador Zlauvinen: of view, but also from the political point interaction with the member states to Thank you, Leslie. Nuclear disarma- of view, and I suspect that if there is prog- address the different issues cannot really ment, the progress towards nuclear dis- ress during the Review Conference on be done via virtual connection. As Gustavo armament or the lack of progress towards additional steps toward nuclear disarma- was saying before, the diplomacy for nuclear disarmament, is going to be one ment, nuclear risk reduction and greater negotiation or discussion needs to have of those key issues, as I mentioned this transparency will have a better chance at
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being adopted rather than a prohibition Dick Donovan: Rian Bahran: on fissile materials. But again, it’s not up to I’m going to get a little more finite in I’m going to pass and just thank the me to decide or even to forecast what the international relations. Our organization speakers for their interesting comments Review Conference may or may not do, assesses both security and safety, and so far. Thank you. on the technical aspect of verification of a we have for the past few years conducted possible prohibition on fissile materials or a number of reviews of safety culture at Jack Jekowski: Yes, thank you both for joining us a cut-off treaty. It's all yours, Massimo. Department of Energy sites. I think, overall, today, this was incredibly informative. what we’re seeing is that it is growing, Massimo Aparo: This is the third anniversary, last week, of although it is not perfect at this point. Even Well, thank you. The disarmament the Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear the United States Congress has taken part is completely outside the IAEA’s Weapons, TPNW. There’s been a lot of arti- some interest in the safety culture at par- mandate so I don’t want to discuss any cles written about the interaction between ticular sites, and has tasked us to look at element of that. It is a political issue, it’s the NPT, particularly Article VI on that. Do the status of that culture. However, we not part of our activity. What may be dif- you see interactions occurring next year don’t seem to see security culture getting ferent is some kind of fissile cut off treaty, during the Review Conference between the same traction, and I was wondering which was already analyzed in the past. those two entities? in particular how IAEA feels that’s going However, any operation of this type, even internationally? coming from the nuclear nonproliferation Ambassador Zlauvinen: Review Conference, will have to be autho- Massimo Aparo: Thank you, John. I’m the Presi- dent-Designate of the NPT Review Confer- rized by the Board. So, if a request is sub- Well, from my point of view I will even ence, so, therefore, I have no connection mitted for consideration, how much would make your observation wider. If you look at to the new treaty, the TPNW. However, it cost? What would be the impact? What the regulatory authority in different coun- based on my consultation with NPT States kind of resources would be required? We tries, then you look at the people that are Parties, it seems this is a new issue that have the capability, of course, for certain dedicated to the safety aspect and to the may be debated during the Review Confer- aspects that are purely technical, yes. security aspect. On the safety aspect, you ence. Why? Because there is an important We know very well the nuclear material. would see that there is a strong decrease number of States Parties to the NPT that We have all the technology, the expertise in terms of resources and funding moving have signed, and some have ratified, the to handle something like that, but how from safety to security to safeguards. So, TPNW and those countries would like the much would it cost? What are the politi- safeguards remains the one at the national NPT Review Conference to acknowledge cal impacts or certain type of verification level. It will be the one with lower funding the new treaty, and also to acknowledge formats, etc.? resources, because it’s considered that that their work is complimentary. On the there is an international organization of Ambassador Zlauvinen: other hand, you have another important the Agency that takes care of these things. If I may interject an additional number of States Parties to the NPT that However, the international organiza- comment, a fissile material cutoff treaty have not signed and not ratified the other tion, the Agency, our delegation or activ- has been on the tentative agenda of treaty, and they are strongly opposed to ity, requires that the state have a strong the Conference on Disarmament (CD) in any reference to that treaty during the system of accounting control, without Geneva for many, many years, and they NPT Review Conference. Many of these which our capability to do our job is have not started those consultations due states see a legal clash between the two limited. So yes, there is an issue in terms of to objections by some delegations. But I treaties, not the least of which is because security culture, there is an issue in terms think if there were going to ever be such a Article XVIII of the new treaty states that of safety culture. I don’t imagine that in a treaty, I think it should come from the Con- it is legally above any other treaty without situation of limited economical expansion ference on Disarmament rather from the directly mentioning the NPT, but obviously of the work, this issue would be easily NPT. But again, it’s a personal view. it doesn’t exclude the NPT. Those who are addressed. very familiar with the new treaty may also know that the verification system that the
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new treaty established is not like the inter- couple of years before the staff member governments, institutions like INMM, but national safeguards system implemented is fully knowledgeable and, therefore, fully also the IAEA and others, even the U.N.— by the IAEA and used by the NPT as the equipped to do their job. we should also be looking at what more standard for verification. It requires a couple of years before we can do to help prepare the next gener- There is already a complex relation- a new staff member has gone to all the ations for future challenges. Because they ship between the two treaties and it’s training sessions that are required, and are the ones who are going to be facing going to continue to be so, and unfortu- has collected enough experience to be the new challenges 20, 30, 40 years from nately, I’m expecting to have a very diffi- able to coordinate an activity in the field. now. cult debate at the NPT Review Conference You have to remember that, for example, It’s not us, I’m sorry to say that. Yes. between those two groups of State Parties they need to be able to negotiate with But also, for them to help facilitate a broad on whether the Review Conference should facility operators. This is not a skill that is base and balanced considerations of the acknowledge and take into account the needed outside the IAEA setting. We have issues that we as a nuclear community are new treaty or not. I don’t know how this been preparing everything to expand this facing, not just today, but also in the future. will be resolved, but it will be another in 7 years to 9 years, to be able to at least So, I think we need more investment. a long list of challenges that the Review absorb part of the cost that we invest in Investment in the next generations, and as Conference is going to face. training. I said, also in improving gender imbalance, From our point of view, we have are going to be crucial. I think so, and this Lawrence Satkowiak: realized that the most important thing should be a longer-term priority. And I This has to do a little bit with what is to have a training program with these believe the INMM just has a lot to contrib- we heard from Administrator Lisa Gor- particular boosts so we can afford to hire ute to that, in this perspective. Thank you. don-Haggerty, in terms of personnel and people perhaps with a limited knowledge the acquisition of trained personnel to of the nuclear fuel cycle, but with certain Markku Koskelo: meet the needs to execute your mission. Thank you. I’d like to go back to some other skills and capabilities. This can make And this is directed towards Max within, of the people who were passed on and them attractive to our point of view, and in terms of having the right number, the perhaps we can allow the two “Carries” then we provide them all the necessary right quality, the capacity that you need to and with Cary Crawford getting the last knowledge through these training pro- implement safeguards around the world. word, but Carrie Matthews, you passed grams. It’s very expensive. We are trying. And what is the current situation that and then indicated that you have changed As you mentioned, if you look at the cost you’re facing in terms of personnel con- your mind, that you have a question. So of the training an inspector goes through straints, and what is the Agency doing to please ask your question and then we within 5 years, we spend about €200,000 address that? will let Cary Crawford ask his question for each inspector. So now you have 250 and close our session. We’ve run through inspectors. That is how costly is the train- Massimo Aparo: everyone at least once. So, Carrie. We have general difficulties in iden- ing program for us, and how important it tifying a large number of potential candi- is to make sure that you have people that Carrie Matthews: dates, especially for some specific jobs. have the right capability, the right knowl- Thanks, Markku. I have a question Again, I think that partly is due to the edge to perform the job. that’s directed at both the Ambassa- reduction in many countries in the areas If I may also interject on this more, just dor and Max, but perhaps Max first. This of nuclear energy and nuclear technology, on a broader perspective, not only from morning when Ambassador Zlauvinen which reduces the number of people that the point of view of how to train the IAEA's made his remarks, he really called atten- may be attracted by these kinds of jobs. In inspectors, but I’m talking about how we tion to this balance in the three pillars of the Agency, we have a rotation policy that encourage the next generation to get the NPT and trying to elevate the techni- requires that after 7 years staff depart the involved with these issues. Not only, as I cal nuclear applications and cooperation Agency. We already started a discussion say as practitioners, but maybe as diplo- aspect pillar. And this got me thinking with the DG to look at the specific areas mats, even as a future leaders. I think we about the important message to the coun- of safeguards where we need at least a should, and when I’m talking we, I say that tries that maybe aren’t making as much
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use of nuclear applications, but that are any of the technical proliferation projects produce nuclear weapons in exchange for interested in doing so, and how we com- that were being done were being started two things: one, the recommitment by the municate with them and bring safeguards with all the requirements, including the fact nuclear weapons states to one day forge into that message. So that when we say that certain technical expertise or techni- a complete nuclear disarmament, and two, nuclear applications have great promise cal division is supposed to be approved to have greater access to nuclear technol- for development and health and security, by the procurement working group of the ogies. I have to say that some of the States but that comes also with the requirement commission. Parties are questioning whether this “grand to establish some regulatory capability to So, even though the Agency is not the bargain” is actually being implemented by implement safeguards effectively. member state, we have to make sure that the P5, and I am expecting this issue to be And I’m wondering, Max in particular, we avoid the way that certain goods or debated at the Review Conference. are there ways that you see that technical certain expertise were provided, because cooperation and safeguards could col- we are going through the regular approval Markku Koskelo: Thank you. Cary Crawford, you have laborate a bit more in the Agency to try process. In general terms, it is strengthen- the last word. If you wish to make a couple to bring a coherent message to countries ing the state authority for accountants in of comments please keep your questions that are in stages of development and control. short. We have officially approximately 10 interested in nuclear applications? And to minutes left. Ambassador Zlauvinen, have you expe- Ambassador Zlauvinen: Yes, Massimo correctly pointed out rienced in your regional workshops and that technical cooperation and safeguards Cary Crawford: so forth, any discussion that brings those Thank you, Markku. I thought I had a are separate categories, but at the end of two topics together? And would you have question and I think what I’ll do is make it a the day, they are intertwined, like the three any ideas on how we could do that going statement that you’re welcome to respond NPT pillars. TC, from the point of view of forward? Thank you. to. And if you prefer, we can just kind of the NPT’s access to nuclear applications make it a closing. My question was going Massimo Aparo: for peaceful purposes is linked to the to be very much related to the one Corey Maybe I can start. First of all, there is nonproliferation obligations, and is mutu- Hinderstein asked, but maybe more with a cooperation apart from technical coop- ally supporting, as Massimo has already technology spin to it, related to the many eration. You have to realize the mission noted. In the regional workshops that we times disruptive processes and proce- is in two parts. They are, let’s say, com- organized with support from the UNODA, dures and technologies come from some plementary. The cooperation is there to the European Union, and others, in Africa, of the most difficult of circumstances. And help the country develop its presence in Asia, and one in South America, there was so, it was going to be along the lines of the nuclear field. Safeguards are there to a lot of interest by States Parties in how what, if anything, from the COVID-19 pan- implement verification. Now, the cooper- to expand access to nuclear technolo- demic has come in terms of innovative ation, at this point in time, is focused on gies. And obviously not only the transfer technologies that may not have been making sure that the certain TC project of know-how and technologies, but also even on the table prior. For example, does not introduce a proliferation risk— the requirements that those technologies I know at Oak Ridge National Lab, we considering the type of nuclear fuel cycle, and know-how are used in a manner that and other national labs have come up the expertise of the country, and providing is safe, secure, and under safeguards. with opportunities to work on the COVID direction if a risk becomes present. So clearly, there is a connection and problem that we never would have real- So, we review all the different tech- I expect this issue also to be discussed at ized, with advanced manufacturing, with nical cooperation projects. We provide the Review Conference. Why? Because high performance computing, with other advisors both to the technical cooper- in 1995, when the mutually reinforcing technologies. ation department, and the DG in terms and balanced nature of NPT’s “grand So, many times researchers are chal- of a possible impact of the results of a bargain” was solidified with the Treaty’s lenged by not knowing the application technical cooperation project, in terms of indefinite extension, the non-nuclear space in which you need their research, nonproliferation. When we started just a weapons states undertook to continue but you’re sometimes challenged by few weeks ago, we had to make sure that with their obligation not to develop or
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not necessarily knowing what they have of today’s nuclear supply chain calls for amazing opportunity. I’m ready to work to offer. And I think the INMM plays this better communication, coordination, and with all of you in the near future. middle ground role, where if we talk about collaboration across sectors and across our collaboration properly, we can frame borders, not only to improve the benefits Massimo Aparo: Just few words more because the questions in such a way that we can of nuclear technology, but also to protect Gustavo was very good in describing turn it into a challenge to the Institute. So, the international community and our coun- everything, and stressing the need for I was gratified to hear Ambassador Zlau- tries against possible misuses of that very collaboration and the fact that it helps us vinen and Administrator Gordon-Haggerty same nuclear technology and applications, to achieve all the different objectives. So, today throw some challenges to us. And while still ensuring that they are accessible from that point of view, they can only look I guess my comment would be formulat- to all who need those technologies—with forward to the future when the situation ing those challenges in such a way that of course safety, security, and safeguards, will change. I look forward to the future, they’re meaningful challenges that can regulatory authorities, and so on. I believe where a symposium—hopefully—will be be tackled, so that we can come back that the INMM membership has a lot of here in Vienna. Thank you very much for with out-of-the-box solutions that maybe potential and capability to help deal with producing this event. I’m looking forward you don’t have the bandwidth for in your these challenges, to look at emerging to my keynote tomorrow. current job of getting it done now, that it’s technologies and consider what measures a good marriage. could be considered today to help “future Markku Koskelo: And so, I would thank you for your proof” relevant technologies before they On behalf of the Journal, let me thank challenges, and I maybe would end with are even commercialized or readily avail- our distinguished panelists for their par- that statement and thank you for spending able on the open market. I think Massimo ticipation in this event. And all of you who time with the INMM. And you’re welcome is also working on that. This includes, for took the time to think about questions to comment if you like. If not, I can leave example, designing in safeguards, secu- and participate in this event. So, with that, it at that. rity and safety measures as practicable, I think we are just about exactly on time. training the next generation, and ensuring Ambassador Zlauvinen: So, let me close this event and wish for all they have all the basic information that of you a good week participating in our Well, if I may, Cary, thank you very they need to maintain adequate levels annual event, and please do participate much, and also to all the participants in this of expertise that this very important field in the ADG talk tomorrow morning. Thank Roundtable. We heard today many good requires. Thank you for giving me this you everyone. questions and ideas. The globalization
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Closing Plenary Session 61st Annual Meeting Plenary Speaker: Dr. Ernest Moniz Former Secretary of Energy, U.S. Department of Energy
Cary Crawford: Nancy Jo has worked in the global with Secretary John Kerry and he strength- Hello, and welcome to the final security field at the Los Alamos National ened the Department of Energy’s partner- Plenary and close out of this year’s Annual Laboratory since 1990. She was appointed ships with the National Laboratories and Meeting. We have a great Closing Plenary Associate Lab Director for Global Security with the Department of Defense. Since coming up. It’s a great honor to introduce on November 1st, 2018. The Director was Ernie left government, he has continued you to our moderators who will then focused on nonproliferation and counter- to energetically pursue his twin passions introduce our speaker and moderate the proliferation R&D associated with weapons of reducing nuclear dangers and pro- session. of mass destruction, space defense and moting clean energy. He is now the CEO We’re privileged to have Miss Jill systems applications, war fighter support, and Co-Chair of the Nuclear Threat Initia- Hruby and Nancy Jo Nicholas with us. homeland security, and intelligence anal- tive, as well as the President and CEO of Jill is Emeritus Director and President of ysis. She’s also currently serving on the the Energy Futures Initiative. In addition, Sandia National Labs and an indepen- National Academy of Science’s nuclear he keeps his finger in academia after a dent consultant providing services to the and radiation studies board. She’s the 40-year distinguished career at MIT, and is Nuclear Threat Initiative, Carnegie Endow- Past President and Fellow of the Institute now the Cecil and Ida Greenway Profes- ment for International Peace, and numer- of Nuclear Materials Management. Cur- sor of Physics and Engineering Systems ous boards and advisory committees. She rently the Chair of the Fellows Committee, Emeritus, and a Special Advisor to the MIT served as the Director of Sandia National she served on the Board of Directors for President. Labs from 2015 to 2017. After 34 years at the World Institute for Nuclear Security, He is engaged in a number of other Sandia, enrolls with increasing responsi- the American Physical Society panel and endeavors that are too numerous to bilities. Jill has worked in nuclear weapon Public Affairs’ study on potential U.S.- name. Dr. Moniz has a Bachelor of Science systems, nuclear nonproliferation, defense Russian nuclear reductions after New degree from Boston College and a doc- and homeland security technologies and START, and the Defense Science Board torate from Stanford, both in physics. He systems, renewable energy materials, Task Force on the assessment of nuclear has nine honorary doctorate degrees and and engineering sciences and micro-sys- treaty monitoring and verification technol- a host of national and international awards. tems technology. She serves on advisory ogies. I’m excited for this panel and I will He is a committed champion of diversity committees at Purdue University and the turn the microphone over to Jill. and a gender champion in nuclear policy. University of California at Berkeley, where It has been my pleasure to work with him Jill Hruby: she earned her bachelor’s and mas- both as Secretary and again at NTI to Well, thanks Cary for that great intro- ter’s degrees in mechanical engineering promote science and technology to inform duction. It’s my pleasure to start this Closing respectively. Jill has received the Depart- sound policy decisions. Dr. Moniz will Plenary by introducing Dr. Ernie Moniz. As ment of Energy Secretary’s Exceptional provide some brief opening comments. most of you know, Dr. Moniz served as the Service Award, the National Nuclear Secu- After his comments, Nancy Jo and I will Secretary of Energy from 2013 to 2017. rity Administrators Distinguished Service alternate asking questions before turning During his time as Secretary, he garnered Gold Award and the Office of the Sec- to the audience for questions. Please join bipartisan support for energy, science and retary of Defense medal for exceptional me in welcoming Dr. Ernie Moniz. technology, and advanced clean energy. public service. Joining her to moderate will He negotiated the Iran Agreement along be Nancy Jo Nicholas.
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Dr. Ernie Moniz: however, to build bridges between and together from different backgrounds in Well, thank you Jill. Let me begin by among these communities. Similarly, I’ve professional societies in meetings like thanking the Institute and its leadership for worked on issues related to nonprolifer- this. It gives us the opportunity to work this invitation to be with you. NTI certainly ation, nuclear security, nuclear science, across those lines, including nationality, has a long history with INMM. And just to safety, safeguards, back-end, front-end, to share research results, ideas, and per- remind some of you, that includes former transportation, disposition, you name spectives. Your work comes at the inter- NTI President Charlie Curtis’s Plenary it. But I have to say, it’s probably a little section of technical understanding and speech at the Annual Meeting in 2005 known, including to my close colleagues policy. And again, we need your engage- resulting in the so-called ”Curtis Chal- who are on this call, that I was a conscript ment in helping shape policy and define lenge,” leading to the joint effort between in this field in 1976. My mentor at MIT, what is smart and what is possible. I want our two organizations, in cooperation with Herman Feshbach—some of you may to commend the Institute for focusing on DOE and the IAEA to create WINS, the remember him and may have learned this mission and highlighting the themes of World Institute for Nuclear Security. And from his methods in theoretical physics— connection and collaboration during this WINS has been extremely successful in was head of the MIT Physics Department Annual Meeting. As this is the last session, its 12-year history. Today, it has more than and a real driver in the creation of the I hope you’ve been able to accomplish 6,000 members in 149 countries, and American Physical Society Panel on Public that, even while we are still obviously is now preparing for its first leadership Affairs [POPA]. He basically ordered me, as socially distant. change, as Roger Howsley prepares to a junior faculty member, to be part of the Of course, I should also mention depart as Executive Director at the end study group on nuclear fuel cycle to waste that today is the 75th anniversary of of August. He leaves WINS strong and management that was formed in 1976. And the Trinity Test at Alamogordo, another worthy of the legacy of that coopera- I led the chapter on nuclear safeguards reminder of the importance of our work. tion that started with Charlie’s challenge. and then later became POPA chair. But Pivoting from this, I want to highlight an NTI experts have contributed dozens that was really the beginning of my now- upcoming NTI event. Next week, on July of papers, presentations, and panels at long engagement with these nuclear 22, NTI will release the Fifth Edition of annual meetings and workshops. NTI has opportunities and risks. the Nuclear Security Index, a one-of-its- been an INMM sustaining member for I’m really glad I was conscripted. In kind assessment of nuclear security con- many years, and even donated Corey Hin- fact, in the first decade of the century at ditions around the world and a premier derstein to the Executive Committee for 6 MIT, when I started the MIT Energy Initiative, resource for governments and experts. years of service, ending this September. we also started a series of, frankly, quite Without giving away any of the results, Most recently, we’ve been very pleased influential reports on the future of various this year’s Index validates concerns many to have supported the participation at this energy technologies. Nuclear power was of us have about waning political atten- Annual Meeting of almost 20 African and the first in that series, and another report tion on nuclear security, despite clear African-American participants as part of on nuclear fuel cycles helped contribute, and significant security gaps in areas like our commitment to improve the diversity for example, to the Blue Ribbon Commis- cyber security. I hope you’ll join us for the of the nuclear materials management field. sion Report. online launch event on July 22nd to learn If I can say a few words about my So just to say that this goes back, about where progress has been made, own career, I’ve had experience in federal perhaps longer than I wanted to admit. where the world is still falling short, and government, nongovernmental organi- But since Jill already revealed my many what more countries can do to strengthen zations, and academia, among others. decades involved at MIT, I’m not really nuclear security globally. And if you’re Engagement across these communities revealing any new information there! But unable to join us, you’ll be able to see the is vitally important to develop, implement, today, we do face critical challenges in all results, view the webinar, and download and sustain efforts to reduce nuclear risks, of these areas. These challenges require the report at www.ntiindex.org. So, again, promote peaceful nuclear activities, and the skills and expertise of the people in thank you for the opportunity to be here innovate to address the complex chal- this virtual room. Stovepipes are obstacles and I’m looking forward to our conversa- lenges we all face. It is sometimes difficult, to progress, so it’s great to bring people tion today with Jill and Nancy Jo.
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Nancy Jo Nicholas: to being implausible, it’s actually a really that Russia and China may be violating Thank you, Dr. Moniz for those bad idea. This goes back again to the the no-yield provision of the CTBT and opening remarks. And in particular, I appre- numbers. China has an order of magni- conducting low yield tests. Then the U.S. ciate you highlighting the Curtis Challenge. tude smaller stockpile compared to Russia administration has suggested that the U.S. I remember that like it was yesterday. It’s or the United States and a negotiation on may resume underground testing. Can hard to believe it’s been a decade. Let’s numbers is likely to end up in a bad place you just share with us your opinion about kickoff the questions. I would like to start when you have a big asymmetry. whether the U.S. should be seriously con- with one about arms control. So, when We think that there is good reason to sidering resuming underground testing New START was negotiated, also about start to try to draw China into arms control or anything else you have to say about a decade ago, the Russians were really and disarmament discussions. But right nuclear tests at this point? interested in making sure that China was now, it should not be around treaties or Dr. Ernie Moniz: included in the next treaty. Now, the U.S. setting limits, or, frankly, getting into diffi- Sure. First, the little bit of history in is pushing to maybe have China come to cult verification measures. We should start introducing me did not mention that I the table, be part of a new treaty. So, my with a much more normative discussion, had a practice run at the Department of question is, what do you think the future which China could join with the United Energy, which was as Undersecretary in might be for bilateral arms control? Where States and Russia, and, potentially, with the second term of President Clinton. In are we going to go? the remainder of the P5 to make some real that position, I had the misfortune of being progress. at the witness table in the 1999 ratification Dr. Ernie Moniz: And finally, going back to the bilateral hearings of the Comprehensive Test Ban Well, that’s a really important ques- issues, I would just say that on New START, Treaty, along with the three weapons lab tion of the day. And frankly, I’ll say a bit I think it’s a no-brainer to go forward. But directors. Those hearings, and the subse- more about this, but I’m certainly con- the reality is, we have a lot of hard work to quent vote, did not go well for advocates cerned, as are many of us, that this insis- do in terms of reinvigorating, or you might of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. tence on China as being party to a New say even “restarting,” the kinds of discus- I say that because the two principal START extension is fundamentally a sions that we had for many, many years, arguments at that time for not ratifying the poison pill, in terms of making progress. including with the Soviets at the height of CTBT—and I frankly, think that there was The fundamental reason is pretty clear. the Cold War: Exercising our responsibility some merit in those arguments at that The United States and Russia continue as the world’s leading nuclear weapons time—were that: to have over 90 percent of the world’s powers to minimize risk rather than perpet- • we did not have an established, nuclear weapons. We are really the only uate the current situation, which we fear is science-based stockpile steward- two countries that pose, what I would call, drifting in the opposite direction, opening ship program that could back up genuinely existential threats to the other. up an all-too-real possibility of a miscalcu- safety, security, and reliability of the We have a special responsibility that was lation leading to a very bad outcome. exercised for decades to minimize nuclear stockpile without testing, and; risks, minimize the risks of miscalculation, Jill Hruby: • the world did not have the com- for example. Okay Ernie, I’m going to ask the next prehensive detection network, We really need to do this extension question. And as you mentioned, today is including seismic and other forms of with New START because, even if you the 75th anniversary of Trinity, the world’s detection, for nuclear tests. thought it was possible, the idea of China first nuclear explosive test. Therefore, it I start out with that because, I would joining New START as an extension is not seems important to discuss the current argue, that on the former in particular, we legally plausible. This is a treaty between status of nuclear testing, as the U.S. has have a pretty robust science-based stock- the United States and Russia that only signed but never ratified the Comprehen- pile stewardship program without testing. requires administrative action—essentially sive Test Ban Treaty, although we have So, both of those arguments, I think, are the initials of the two presidents—to add been abiding by its provision that pro- overtaken by events with science and the 5 years. I would add that, in addition hibits all nuclear tests that produce yield technology led by the labs. That takes us to since 1992. Recently, the U.S. has alleged today. Especially given that we have those
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two technology-based advances, there is Dr. Ernie Moniz: Iran recognizes that the confidence in their nothing but advantage to the United States Well, first of all, I’m very pleased not restarting a nuclear weapons program in continuing at least a moratorium, if not a to address that issue of the technology (which they never conceded to have, but treaty obligation, to have no more nuclear and the verification. To make sure we’re we know they had) is because of the ver- tests. We have certainly done the most on the same page, let me give the most ification regime. So, in order for Iran, for nuclear tests of anyone by far. elementary, streamlined description of example, to continue to have the support If we were to do a test now, it clearly the JCPOA. It’s two elements. One is that of the Europeans, the verification regime, would open a Pandora’s box for testing by Iran had specific restrictions on its nuclear frankly, was more important than the steps other countries. At a minimum, I would say activities for 15 years. In particular, Iran they actually took in violating their nuclear Russia and China, but probably not at a was restricted to only 300 kilograms of restrictions. maximum. That would be a national secu- enriched uranium with enrichment below I will pivot from that just to make one rity detriment for us. 3.67 percent. That’s a pretty big constraint last point. The JCPOA very clearly said Now, there are these accusations, in terms of the kind of program that Iran that these unique verification regimes, or assertions, that Russia and/or China could have for 15 years. way above their safeguards agreement may have done very, very low yield tests, Let me also add that we mentioned with the IAEA, were special to Iran. That below the threshold of seismic detection. today as the anniversary of Trinity, but is, it was put forward in the context of Iran I can’t say whether that’s true or not. I can two days ago was the fifth anniversary of and Iran’s having had a previous weapons say that merely detecting a lot of ground- the JCPOA signing, on July 14, 2015. Ever program up through 2003. However, since based activity around testing sites is not since that day, the discussions about the I’m not in government, I am perfectly free sufficient to defend that statement. If it Iran Agreement keep focusing on centri- to say that many of those unique elements were, the United States would be accused fuges and enrichment. I’m not saying that’s really should now be part of the discussion of the same since we carry out subcritical unimportant. However, it misses the fact about the nuclear security posture of the tests at our test site. that the second element of the JCPOA, future, about what the IAEA has the pre- The way to handle this, certainly with in my view, was by far the more import- rogative to do in terms of nuclear inspec- Russia, is the traditional way, when we had ant—the unique verification regime that tions. That goes everywhere from the use functioning agreements and functioning it put forward. Iran agreed to both IAEA of some of their technologies for remote understandings. It would be a discussion, “boots on the ground” and many tech- monitoring, for example, to supplementing possibly even followed by mutual verifi- nology-based monitoring capabilities that the Additional Protocol for a finite time to cation visits. But it’s that dialogue that is were (and still are) absolutely unique in allow access to undeclared sites. There’s missing. To turn that around by threatening the world. That included all kinds of sur- a lot to do and frankly, at NTI and with to do a test, to get negotiating leverage as veillance technologies. It included special Corey Hinderstein, we are very actively was reported, it’s just completely going in seals. It included the opportunity to trans- looking at how that kind of agenda could the wrong direction for our own national mit data from some of these devices. It be pursued. No matter where the JCPOA security. included novel approaches such as that is right now, between life and death, we Iran remains the only country in the world can be building on some of the unique Nancy Jo Nicholas: that agreed to 25 years of surveillance of elements of the deal for a future nuclear My next question, Dr. Moniz, is about the entire uranium supply chain. So, these security regime. Iran. So, as you pointed out, our audience are very, very powerful constraints. here at INMM is a nice mix of technology Jill Hruby: Now, Iran clearly has, and very developers and policy influencers. Of We have so many questions but openly, step by step said, “Okay, we’re course, you’re an expert in both those we’re dedicated to turning this over to the going beyond the JCPOA constraints on domains. So as one of the architects of the audience after this one, I think, so we get nuclear activity.” But the reality is, and Iran nuclear deal, how do you assess the plenty of time for audience questions. So, while there’s a little ambiguity here, funda- long-term impacts of the innovative tech- I think, Ernie, it might be good to change mentally, Iran has stuck with the verifica- nical verification elements of the JCPOA? topics a little bit from security to nuclear tion regime. I would argue that is because energy. And I know this is an area where
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you’ve been active, but the U.S. has not is number one. extension to 80 years becomes relatively had a nuclear power resurgence. But Number two is that no matter what common, then of course, we have another meanwhile, nuclear power continues as the goal is, including net zero, it’s pretty 20 years. That would be a big leg up in a principal and low carbon energy source clear that decarbonization of the electricity terms of trying to reach net zero. So, it’s and other countries such as China, Russia, sector comes first. So, if we’re going to go both extending the existing plants and France, and countries in the Middle East to net zero by mid-century for the entire bringing the new kinds of technologies on. and elsewhere are planning nuclear economy, we better get there by 2040 or Now, the last part of your question power production going forward. Do a little bit earlier in electricity. was about implications for security, and you think nuclear power should be more Now that brings us back to nuclear this is very important. There are a number widely adopted? And if so, what do you as one of the big tools in the toolbox for of dimensions. You mentioned in the intro- see as the national security implications? decarbonizing—in particular, the elec- duction that I am also leading something tricity sector. So, technically do we need called the Energy Futures Initiative, and if Dr. Ernie Moniz: nuclear? Technically not. But in reality, anybody wants to go to https://energyfu- Well, Jill, let me first talk about the the job goes from herculean to whatever turesinitiative.org you’ll find a 2017 paper climate change-driven construct that we some superlative is beyond herculean to written specifically on the national security need to head to. 2015 is when we did the meet those goals. implications of the nuclear power sector. JCPOA in July, but you may remember that I personally think that it’s not for every- Number one is that the United States December of 2015 was the signing of the body, and there will be major regional dif- was able to establish very strong norms Paris Agreement at COP 21. I could say a ferences. I do believe, for example, that for nonproliferation, largely through bilat- lot about that and I was also a partner with Germany will stick to its no-nuclear com- eral peaceful uses agreements with other John Kerry there. The Paris Agreement, if mitment. Of course, they’re having a hard countries (so-called 123 Agreements for you recall, basically called for a two-de- time figuring out what to replace it with. the experts). We could advance strong gree centigrade maximum warming, and I’m a very, very strong supporter 123 Agreements because, frankly, we to really try to do better to get even lower of strengthening public-private part- were the big dog in the nuclear supply warming. That all got summarized in what nerships to make sure that, in this chain. If we don’t rebuild and strengthen you might call an 80 percent reduction in decade, we demonstrate and have the our nuclear supply chain, we will continue greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century. techno-economic dimensions clarified for to lose leverage in those nonproliferation Well, going on 5 years since the Paris small modular reactors, both light water agreements. meeting, the science community in partic- and Gen IV-type technologies. Also, the Secondly, having an incomplete ular has come to the realization that we micro-reactors that are getting more and supply chain domestically has other impli- actually have to do better. Now the one- more attention will be very important, not cations. I’ll mention one specifically. In the and-a-half-degree goal is viewed as the for baseload power but for mining and United States today, we do have some one we have to really get behind. To do especially for remote places. I think we uranium enrichment capability. It’s in New that, at least for the industrialized coun- need to get those out there so that we can Mexico but it’s Urenco, European technol- tries, one is now talking not about an 80 be prepared to start scaling the new tech- ogy. It is not usable for national security percent reduction but about a net zero nologies, let’s say in the 2030s, to meet purposes. I will mention two areas. Even if goal for 2050. that strong decarbonization goal. the Navy can convert from HEU to LEU, we Let me define net zero because the It’s not simple. It’s also not simple need enriched uranium using a fully Amer- net is important. That means having some because in the United States, we still have ican supply chain, including enrichment. contributions from negative carbon tech- roughly 100 gigawatts of nuclear power. The second area is to provide tritium nologies to offset any remaining nonzero If those plants retire after 60 years, then for the nuclear weapons stockpile. We, emissions in the economy so that you have the big retirement wave starts just about again, need an enrichment capacity to a net zero. The more now that we tighten at the same time, in the 2030s. So, it’s provide fuel for the reactors from which those objectives, the more we need every not only building new nuclear power, it’s the tritium is extracted. We do not have tool in the toolbox that we can bring to also replacing the nuclear power. If life such capability. The barn is not on fire, bear on carbon emissions reductions. That
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in the sense that we still have lots of have to rebuild the really intense level of back to it, it’s about building it. Frankly, in stockpiled enriched uranium that can be discussions at all levels, including military the late 90s, Los Alamos was the leader in used for those purposes. But it’s a finite to military. trying to build laboratory-to-laboratory dis- resource. We also know that the time for Right now, we have Congress dis- cussions with China. Those ran into issues building any nuclear facility tends to be couraging military-to-military interactions. and that never got off the ground. Well, counted in the decades as opposed to the Those are critical for our stability. We used as a result, we have a situation with very years. So, I personally believe that that’s to have diplomat-to-diplomat discussions, little transparency and very little, almost an example of a broken supply chain in the and I don’t mean president-to-president. none, of the kind of discussions and coop- United States in the nuclear arena, where I I mean foundational work. We had scien- eration that can build that trust. But as think we should be moving on it right now, tist-to-scientist collaboration. The National we said earlier, we need to start building frankly, and not saying, “Well, we’ve got 40 Labs, including Los Alamos and Sandia up that trust with China to negotiate, not years to wait. 40, 50 years, plenty of time.” and others, were absolutely critical and arms control agreements, but all the kinds Not in the nuclear business. So, lots of paid big dividends, especially around the of normative discussions that I believe national security implications in that supply time of the dissolution of the Soviet Union. we could do right now. Sorry, I give long chain being rebuilt. We need to go back to doing that. That’s answers. where the cut-off of the kinds of significant Nancy Jo Nicholas: efforts in the nuclear domain between the Jill Hruby: Okay, Dr. Moniz, we have a number We’re adjusting accordingly. We have United States and Russia erodes the trust of questions coming in from the audience. a lot of great questions but I think this will that we build up through personal interac- Quite a few of them are in the area of arms probably be the last one, given our time tions and personal ties. control. So, let’s start with this one, it’s constraints. And I’m selecting this question I signed two R&D agreements when about trust. Could you please comment on because I know this is important to you, I was at the DOE. One was in the Clinton the role of trust in arms control? And rather Ernie. It’s also important to me. And the years, when I was Undersecretary. I than ask you to comment on what the U.S. question is, what advice do you have for signed an agreement with Deputy Minis- government should be doing, could you students and early career staff in nuclear ter Ryabev, who headed their weapons give us some advice on what the Russian safeguards and security? How has your program. This agreement had the U.S. and and Chinese side ought to be doing to advice changed with the current global Russian weapons labs literally collaborat- build that trust? pandemic and the challenges it presents ing on nuclear weapons issues. Not on to our field? Dr. Ernie Moniz: the design of nuclear weapons but on the Well, first of all, I have to start with a safety of those systems, etc., tremendously Dr. Ernie Moniz: comment that goes back to the last ques- building up trust in the nuclear weapons Maybe I’ll think in real time here. tion that you asked, Nancy Jo. Some of arena. Then, with President Obama when I haven’t thought too much about the the collateral damage of the pullout by the I was Secretary, I signed the agreement pandemic, specifically, and safeguards, United States of the Iran agreement is that with Mr. Kiriyenko, who headed Rosatom, but more broadly it has had enormous it is going to take a long time to rebuild on what could have been an expansive impact. If I may, since NTI also has a large the reputation of reliability that underpins nuclear R&D collaboration. That was program in pandemic preparedness and a lot of the trust issues. I have to say, and signed in September of 2013. The Russian now of course in COVID-19, I would like to I’m not being partisan here, but it’s just a incursion into Ukraine in early 2014 basi- first put out a rather unpleasant fact. And fact that we have clearly a “shaking” of the cally prevented any activities under that that is, depending on how you count, the pillars of things like NATO, and that’s with agreement, but it’s sitting there. It’s signed. COVID-19 pandemic right now is either the our allies. If we weaken that trust, it’s a little It’s the kind of thing that I think we should, sixth or the seventh identifiable epidemic/ bit harder to project that trust in our discus- at least selectively, go back to so that we pandemic of this century. We’re talking sions with the Russians and the Chinese. can start building that trust. about every 3 years, starting with SARS It’s incumbent on all those countries, it’s With China, I would say we’ve never in 2002 in China. And mentioning SARS, not just the United States, as you say. We had that discussion. So, it’s not about going the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome
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and COVID-19: these are all three corona- whether it’s climate or nuclear security or and I have enjoyed it quite a bit. As we’re viruses. Yet, after each of those events we pandemics, is absolutely essential. For wrapping up, I want to point out that there’s have not answered the wake-up call about those of you out there who are in that age a polling question about the ribbons that preparing for the next pandemic. group, it’s going to be your problem. I’m INMM normally gives out at all our confer- And today, the pandemic has had trying to help, but it’s what you’re going to ences. I’m sure Dr. Moniz has been to lots such an impact on social structures and live with. I think it’s of critical importance of conferences with colorful ribbons and learning structures. So again, it’s not only coming into this field. To pick up another the question is about whether you miss about safeguards, but in general today we theme that you mentioned in the introduc- those ribbons or not. But as we’re wrap- have many unanswerable questions about tion, it’s clear, especially as our society ping up, Dr. Moniz, this is an opportunity for how there may be a permanent change. evolves and addresses some of its other you to say any closing remarks. For example, will all of our conferences be structural problems, making sure that that Zoom conferences or not? My fear is that if new cadre is as diverse as possible is Dr. Ernie Moniz: I think the last answer I gave would we don’t answer the call this time, we may very important for maximizing the talent be my closing remark. Young people, we have another pandemic of the century in a upon which we can draw to address these need you. All genders, races, across all the few years. I think another one of these in a problems. spectrum of humanity, we need you badly. few years would have dramatic changes in You need to do this for your own futures. all areas of social interaction, of education, Nancy Jo Nicholas: That’s a great answer. And I think one and the like. of the big benefits, or silver linings for the Nancy Jo Nicholas: Now, in terms of the safeguards and Thank you. We really appreciate you pandemic and social distancing, virtual the all the issues around nuclear, I’m not being a gender champion. I think it says a conferences, is that we have access to going to answer the question directly. I lot and INMM has really been a leader in outstanding speakers like Dr. Moniz and guess but to say instead that I can’t help this area as MTI has. So that’s fantastic as all of our Plenary speakers. It’s a great it, that I’ve been drawn to climate change, well. So, thank you again to everyone for opportunity for early career staff or stu- pandemics, and nuclear weapons, topics participating in this Closing Plenary. Thank dents to engage in this kind of a forum and you might call three of the least-arguably you, Jill. You’re a wonderful co-moderator. dialogue. So I really appreciate that, fan- existential threats that we face. None of And now I’d like to hand the podium back tastic session. Thank you, everybody, for these are short term. So, what I think is over virtually to Susan Pepper, who will the wonderful questions and comments. I that the importance of a new generation pivot us all to the closing award ceremony. think this has gone really well. I know Jill filling the pipeline to address these issues, Thank you.
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CONGRATULATIONS TO INNM’S 2020 AWARDS WINNERS!
Each year, the Institute of Nuclear Materials Management recognizes the hard work and success achieved by nuclear materials management professionals through its special awards.
VINCENT J. DEVITO CHARLES E. PIETRI EARLY CAREER AWARD DISTINGUISHED SPECIAL SERVICE 2020 Winner: Melissa Einwechter SERVICE AWARD (DSA) AWARD (SSA) Criteria: The Early Career Award 2020 Winners: Dr. Mona Dreicer, 2020 Winner: Integrated recognizes members of the Therese Renis, and Kurt Siemon Support Center for Nuclear INMM who are 35 years of age or younger (as of the date of the This award, previously known as Nonproliferation and Nuclear nomination deadline) and who the Distinguished Service Award, Security have made a singular outstanding was renamed in honor of long- This award, previously known as achievement or a series of time INMM Secretary Vincent J. the Special Service Award, was notable achievements in an area DeVito, in 2009. renamed in honor of Charles E. of nuclear materials management Pietri in 2011. Criteria: The Vincent J. DeVito relevant to the Institute and its Distinguished Service Award Criteria: The Charles E. Pietri technical divisions. A candidate’s (DSA), named for the Institute’s Special Service Award (SSA), notable achievement must not long-time Secretary, recognizes named for the long-time Chair be related to work performed individuals who have made long- of the Technical Program in pursuit of an academic term, noteworthy contributions Committee, recognizes individuals degree. In the case of a series to the nuclear materials or organizations who have made a of achievements, work related management profession. Eligible specific, noteworthy contribution to a degree may be considered. candidates are not required to be to the Institute. The award can The notable achievement or INMM members, but are expected also be given to an organization series of achievements must be to be internationally recognized that has advanced the knowledge accomplished by the nominee for their contributions to nuclear and effectiveness of the nuclear while a member of the Institute. materials management. materials management field. The The nominee must be the eligible organization does not sole or main contributor to the have to be a Sustaining Member notable achievement. Candidates of the Institute in order to be must not have already been a considered; however, eligible recipient of the Vincent J. DeVito individual candidates are required Distinguished Service Award or to be active members in good the Edway R. Johnson Meritorious standing of the Institute. Service Award. Eligible candidates are required to be active members in good standing of the Institute.
52 Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 ANNUAL MEETING
J.D. WILLIAMS STUDENT PAPER AWARD RESOLUTIONS OF In 2003 the Student Award was officially named the J. D. Williams RESPECT Student Paper Award to honor the memory of James D. Williams, In addition to the various awards INMM President in 2001-2002, for his energetic backing of young provided by INMM, the Institute professionals and tireless support of the INMM to stimulate interest recognizes members who have in, respect for, and proliferation of nuclear materials management made significant contributions principles. Students who enter this competition will be judged to the Institute and have passed on their written papers and oral presentations. Winners will be since the prior Annual Meeting determined by judges composed of the Awards Committee and with Resolutions of Respect. Technical Division Chairs or their designees. Cash prizes for first Candidates for this honor are place ($1,000) and second place ($500) are awarded and announced required to have been active during the Annual Meeting. members in good standing of the Institute. 2020 WINNERS: DIVISION FINALISTS 2020: Darryl Smith, Felicia First Place: Integrating Acquisition Cross-Cutting Topic: Duran, Gennady Pshakin Pathway Analysis into the Cyclus Autonomous Inspection of Fuel Cycle Simulator Nuclear Repositories: Current State of the Art and Future 2020 SENIOR MEMBER by Kathryn Mummah, University Directions APPOINTEES: of Wisconsin Madison • David Chichester by Chris Lee, Oregon State Second Place: Multi Sphere University • Edward Ifft Neutron Spectrometer Based on Elpasolite Scintillators Cross-Cutting Topic: Feasibility • Jason Harris of Generation IV Small Modular by Stuti Surani, University of • Gerard Jackson Reactors as a Path to Achieving Illinois at Urbana Champaign Energy Justice • Heidi Smartt Poster Winner: Optimization of A by Ezra Cockram, University of • Yosuke Naoi K-nearest Neighbors Regression Florida Algorithm For Improved Pulse Shape Discrimination Of Gamma 2020 FELLOWS: Rays And Neutrons In Organic • Dr. Leslie (Les) Fishbone Scintillators • Corey Hinderstein by Matthew Durbin, Pennsylvania State University
JournalJournal ofof NuclearNuclear MaterialsMaterials ManagementManagement 2020-20212020 Volume Volume XLVIII XLVIII, No. No. 3 & 24 5353 Taking the Long View in a Time of Great Uncertainty
Our World Has Changed Forever
Jack Jekowski Industry News Editor and INMM Historian
I was on a Zoom meeting, my third INMM’s New World Division meetings, and workshops of the day, when I realized our world has Certainly, the most direct impact have been conducted using various changed forever. to INMM last year was the necessity of virtual platforms, with experimenta- It happened to be a virtual INMM holding a virtual Annual Meeting, originally tion in using chat rooms and other Nonproliferation and Arms Control (NAC) scheduled to be held at the Inner Harbor tools to create a more realistic envi- Technical Division meeting, and as usual, in Baltimore, Maryland. And this year, ronment for discussions and inter- some of the conversation focused on how after careful consideration, the INMM/ actions. One benefit of the virtual everything had changed since the global ESARDA Annual Meeting Committee platform for the Annual Meeting was pandemic first turned the world upside and the Executive Committee of INMM that we had over 700 participants down, and how nice it would be to get have announced plans to proceed with this year, including 330 first-timers, back to “normal.” a virtual Annual Meeting for this August, 323 non-members, and 81 students. New vaccine science (which began rescheduling the use of the Vienna venue By most accounts, the event created to demonstrate breakthrough solutions for 2023. a new era of participation with the at the beginning of the millennium)1 has As we look across the nuclear com- ability to go back and review paper apparently succeeded in producing mul- munity that the INMM operates within, presentations and Q&As that might tiple solutions to stem the spread of the we find many activities that have been have been missed the first time virus,2 unlike the slow recovery from the re-imagined to meet mission require- around (the presentations will now pandemic that struck the global com- ments, resulting in an extraordinary evo- be online for attendees through munity a little more than 100 years ago. lution of technology products, internet June of 2021).4 Most notably, spon- However, despite this apparent success, access improvements, and other dramatic soring organizations realized sig- there is growing concern that the world, developments. These changes will bring nificant savings in travel costs, as we have known it, has changed forever. new perspectives in a post-pandemic although the virtual environment Organizations such as the United world, and potentially change the funda- does not allow for the important Nations are now creating long-range plans mental ways of performing work. Some of professional and social interactions not only for a path to recovery, but also the issues that have changed our world, that often create critical information plans to operate in a new world,3 as reality and the impact they will have on all that exchanges. However, many orga- sets in that we all must adapt to a new way we do include: nizations are already beginning to of doing things. Fortunately, humans have • INMM—The Institute successfully question the effectiveness of return- proven to be resilient over the millennia, implemented a multi-faceted Annual ing to the “old way” of participating and able to adapt to new environments. Meeting using a special technology in large conferences and meetings, Those of us who are “essential platform coordinated by our Exec- and we may see some reductions workers” in nuclear careers have experi- utive Committee and Association placed on travel for such activities enced the changes firsthand, in real time, Headquarters (AH), INMM’s profes- in the future, even when the current while others, in different situations, have sional management organization. restrictions are lifted. had to deal with these changes at an even Subsequently, regular business of • International Atomic Energy more fundamental level that has disrupted the Institute, including Executive Agency (IAEA) Activities—With the socio-economic stability. Committee meetings, Technical disruption to international travel
54 Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 Taking the Long View in a Time of Great Uncertainty
and the variable restrictions placed virtual meetings became common- (and students, parents, companies, on travelers by individual country place, cybersecurity issues arose regulatory agencies, and govern- mandates, the IAEA has been chal- and continue to be an issue in many ment offices) have had to adjust to lenged to continue their critical role environments, although vendors are a new virtual learning environment. of inspections for various treaties increasing the capability of platforms The issues associated with adapting and agreements. However, they to provide a higher level of secu- to the new pandemic social distanc- have implemented effective plans rity, including passwords and other ing requirements have put tech- to ensure that critical activities can verification measures. One can nology and internet access under be continued.5 This included the use imagine in a post-pandemic world the magnifying glass, as remote of charter airplanes where neces- that, at a minimum, there may be a learning has become a necessity. sary to get inspectors into and out high demand for a virtual platform These challenges become particu- of countries. In a post-pandemic offered to individuals who cannot larly acute when dealing with train- environment, one might envision a travel, whether restricted because of ing that requires physical activities, growing reliance on remote moni- funding, scheduling, or other issues. such as Protective Force Training. toring activities and the use of virtual • Nuclear Power Plant and Facil- Cybersecurity has also become a platforms to conduct activities, ity Operations—Much of the work difficult issue to deal with as many although there will always be a need that must be done at nuclear sites employers implement teleworking. for onsite inspection and verification requires the physical presence of As an example of the extraordinary activity.6 people. This also extends to envi- efforts underway, the Energy Facil- • National and International Meet- ronmental remediation activities and ity Contractors Group (EFCOG), ings—The pandemic has disrupted new construction, as well as other working with the Department of long-scheduled meetings of many critical infrastructure support efforts. Energy and National Nuclear Secu- organizations, including the IAEA, During the pandemic, nuclear power rity Administration, has engaged the European Safeguards Research plant construction has continued the expertise of the large National and Development Association unabated around the world. The Laboratory Management & Operat- (ESARDA), the World Institute for U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission ing (M&O) contractors and others to Nuclear Security (WINS), and the U.S. (NRC) has implemented extraordi- bring nationwide expertise together Nuclear Industry Council (NIC), all nary actions designed to allow the to share lessons learned and other collaborators with the INMM. Many continuous operation of U.S. Nuclear information to meet the training technical and scientific societies Power Plants (NPPs) under COVID-19 and certification requirements of and organizations have also faced restrictions (such as reducing regu- the Nuclear Security Enterprise, as dramatic changes to their normal latory burdens and streamlining well as other DOE Office of Science operating calendar. This situation approval processes) and continues Laboratories.9 Similar issues exist has caused the virtual meeting plat- to monitor that environment, as do worldwide for nuclear facility oper- form “world” to dramatically expand, other global regulatory organiza- ators. Similarly, public and higher as various vendors have added to tions, to ensure safe operations education institutions have made their product lines and offerings, during these extraordinary times.8 dramatic changes during this period and a new environment of virtual As with the activities of the IAEA, to migrate their educational offer- meeting management companies one could envision a movement in ings to remote access, including has emerged. There is a dizzying a post-pandemic world to a greater the need to provide additional train- array of product from the highly reliance on remote monitoring and ing to teachers and professors to popular Zoom to Cisco Webex, Mic- virtual meeting platforms. provide them the tools to operate in rosoft Teams, Google Meet, Adobe • Training, Certifications, and Edu- this new environment. In a post-pan- Connect, GoToMeeting, and many, cation—This has become a global demic world, one might envision many others.7 Once global pandemic issue as educational institutions a significantly different interaction
Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 55 Taking the Long View in a Time of Great Uncertainty
with students across the globe, and personnel in confined spaces.13 the design of new curriculums and Similarly, military operations world- Endnotes degree programs using virtual reality wide have been disrupted by the 1. See https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ to supplement the normal lab and pandemic, including the cancella- articles/PMC1123275/ (12-20-20) for an field learning environments. tion of NATO exercises and other early discussion of using engineered DNA sequences to evoke an immune • New Technology and Internet activities.14 response. Access—The pandemic-driven • Social-Economic Impacts—Global 2. See https://www.sciencemag.org/ requirements of virtual meet- impacts to the socio-economic news/2020/12/messenger-rna-gave-us- ings and remote learning have environment will have long-lasting covid-19-vaccine-will-it-treat-diseases-too demonstrated the need for multi- effects, driven by loss of income, (12-2020), that discusses the use of ple solutions to obtain high-band- deterioration in family cohesive- messenger RNA (mRNA) to not only create a vaccine for COVID-19 but may width internet access, particularly ness, food insecurity, and education. potentially be effective in treating many to remote geographic areas. It has These issues are being addressed other diseases. also shined a light on the disparity by many organizations, including the 3. See https://www.un.org/en/pdfs/ of access in remote areas across the United Nations Development Pro- UNCOVID19ResearchRoadmap.pdf globe, including Native American gramme (UNDP).15 (12-20-22) for a global master roadmap pueblos and reservations in the U.S., for COVID-19 recovery. The U.N. also has a special COVID-19 website: https:// and similar situations in economi- Where Do We Go from Here? www.un.org/en/coronavirus/response cally-deprived countries. Many new Our world has changed forever. The (12-20-20). solutions to global access includes sooner that we accept that fact and begin 4. To access recorded sessions, simply such technology breakthroughs as to adapt to this new environment the more log into the virtual meeting platform with the SpaceX Starlink;10 Sceye11 and quickly we will be able to establish a “new the same credentials you used to login other dirigible-based or long-en- normal” that will allow economic and social to the meeting in July. Attendees who registered for the full event will continue durance, solar powered drones; activities to continue in a more globally to have access to all recorded sessions. and enhanced fiber and Wi-Fi con- connected-community. Attendees who registered for single nectivity through the deployment This column is intended to serve as days will have access to the sessions of new 5G technologies. As these a forum to present and discuss current available from those days. new technologies are deployed to strategic issues impacting the Institute 5. See https://www.iaea.org/covid-19 (12-20- solve the virtual environment issues, of Nuclear Materials Management in 20) and the various links on that page for more detailed information on IAEA the world will see even greater con- the furtherance of its mission. The views activities during this global pandemic. nectivity than it has—connectivity expressed by the author are not neces- 6. See https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/ that can lead to social unrest (as sarily endorsed by the Institute but are news/despite-lockdown-iaea-con- occurred in the Arab Spring), misin- intended to stimulate and encourage tinues-nuclear-verification-and-sup- formation sharing, and other issues JNMM readers to actively participate in ports-countries-fighting-covid-19-in-larg- that have emerged in the second strategic discussions. Please provide est-ever-operation-director-gener- al-tells-agencys-board (12-21-20). decade of the new millennium.12 your thoughts and ideas to the Institute’s 7. See https://www.techfunnel.com/infor- • Military operations—The COVID-19 leadership on these and other issues of mation-technology/11-best-virtual-meet- pandemic has created a national importance. With your feedback, we hope ing-platforms-for-business/ (12-20-20) as security issue when it impacts the to create an environment of open dia- one example of a list of popular virtual ability of military forces to perform logue, addressing the critical uncertainties platforms available today. their missions. This has been par- that lie ahead for the world, and identify 8. See https://www.nrc.gov/about-nrc/covid- 19/index.html (12-20-20) for more infor- ticularly visible because of early the possible paths to the future based on mation on the actions taken by the NRC, breakouts of infections on U.S. nucle- those uncertainties that can be influenced including temporary flexibilities offered ar-powered aircraft carriers with by the Institute. Jack Jekowski can be to licensees, reductions in non-essential complements of more than 5,000 contacted at [email protected]. maintenance, and streamlining other
56 Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 Taking the Long View in a Time of Great Uncertainty
regulatory processes. 11. See https://www.abqjournal.com/1487318/ 14. See https://thesoufancenter.org/intelb- 9. See https://efcog.org/efcog-covid-19- sceye-inc-to-build-stratospheric-airships- brief-how-will-covid-19-impact-u-s-military- lessons-learned-discussions/ (12-20-20) in-nm.html for more information on readiness/ (12-21-20). for more information on EFCOG’s, a pilot program being implemented 15. See: https://www.undp.org/content/undp/ overall COVID-19 assistance to the in New Mexico on the Navajo en/home/coronavirus/socio-economic- DOE/NNSA, and https://efcog.org/ reservations. impact-of-covid-19.html (12-21-20) for a training/ (12-20-20) for more information 12. See JNMM Volume 39, No.4, “Taking discussion on U.N. efforts to develop on the efforts to coordinate training the Long View in a Time of Great a long-term recovery plan for global and certification activities with the DOE Uncertainty, A Strategic Inflection Point,” socio-economic issues. National Training Center. pp. 23-24, where a quote is cited by 10. See https://www.starlink.com/ (12-20-20) then-U.S. State Department’s Under for the official site, and https://www. Secretary for Public Diplomacy and cnet.com/features/how-spacex-starlink- Public Affairs, Judith McHale. broadband-service-will-envelop-earth- 13. See https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/ transform-the-sky/ (12-20-20) for more NEJMoa2019375 (12-21-20) for a medical information on how this new technology analysis of the COVID-19 breakout on works. the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt.
Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 57 Book Review
Book Review Mark L. Maiello, PhD Book Review Editor
The Senkaku Paradox: Risking Great Power War Over Small Stakes Michael E. O’Hanlon Soft cover, 258 pages, ISBN: 9780815736899 Brookings Institution Press, Washington, D.C. 2019
Ever wonder what escalation to China. Bound by a NATO treaty in one nuclear war may look like? Given the pro- instance and by similar allied commitments pensity to transition from diplomacy to in the other, the U.S. would be obliged bullets, that ladder may be a very short to respond. But what exactly should that one. And if it is that short, one could ask, response look like? Some would argue it it is ever worth it? Many will argue that it is should be a military enterprise because never is. But the reality is, for better or for allies, treaties, and perhaps even the worse, that the “many” are not in charge. aggressor expect it to be so. But must For some, diplomacy, even saber rattling, such an incursion be faced solely with mil- may not be enough. In some circum- itary strength? Not necessarily, O’Hanlon stances—say a NATO treaty violation—the argues. Something different may, in fact, case for military action may be very hard be more effective and more aligned to the to resist. And if that first step toward armed magnitude of the aggression. The reason conflict involves countering a Russian or is that the Senkaku Islands or that village in Chinese incursion into disputed or even Latvia is not worth an all-out military retalia- undisputed territory, then one can see that tion. Thus, the paradox: the reason to fight the nuclear card could be played should may be in the alliance and treaty commit- things go sour for one of the involved ments. The will do so may be there, but the powers. Fortunately, cooler heads offer a effort to mount such an assault, the com- become a worthy antagonist again. Both means to forgo the path to nuclear war. plexity, the cost, and the consequences to have access to technology that has closed One such person is Michael O’Hanlon the U.S. do not meet the value of what was the military gap with their primary foe, the who, in The Senkaku Paradox, offers a taken–especially not when an escalation U.S. In fact, although the U.S. continues to realistic alternative and an education in to nuclear war is factored in. The strate- improve its military capability, technology modern economics and warfare. gic response to a fully committed military acquisitions by nuclear-armed China and The Senkaku Paradox poses a sce- operation that satisfies allied commitments Russia have diminished the probability of nario in which a U.S. administration faces is, the author contends, a response that American battlefield success in territories an emboldened China and/or an aggres- should be proportionate to what was lost. and waters far from its shores where logis- sive Russia in pursuit of a power grab. O’Hanlon’s dissertation goes further tics become problematic. The U.S. may Rather than all-out war, either may attempt to explain that the U.S. does not possess be able to mount a military response in to test U.S. resolve by taking a sliver of a the military hegemony it owned in the Eastern Europe or in the western Pacific, Baltic State by force of arms or a disputed 1990s. China has arisen economically but it will be a difficult enterprise, will not territory, such as the Senkaku Islands in and militarily. Russia, too, has recovered be assured of success, will involve loss of the Pacific, claimed by both Japan and from the dissolution of the Soviet Union to life and assets, and could, under certain
58 Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 Book Review
circumstances, bring the world to the brink a continuous technology race with China current U.S. might and will continue to do of nuclear war. and Russia for the foreseeable future. so. Despite O’Hanlon’s predictions that The recommendation O’Hanlon O’Hanlon is a fearless analyst unafraid U.S. prowess may prevail now or perhaps makes is to formulate a retaliatory action to predict what the conventional military even in the future, it may pay dearly in the that accommodates the scale of the comparison between the nuclear powers process. But in economics, the U.S. has aggression. His action does not completely could look like in 40 years. He provides a meaningful weapon it can leverage to forgo military action, but instead, puts it in a very readable analysis of how the nar- inflict harm on an enemy that exceeds the a supportive role rather than employing it rowing technology gap has affected the gain of its aggression. as the primary response. U.S. retaliation to calculus of military response and the O’Hanlon does not propose that we a small scale territorial aggression, so the probability of success (the bits of statis- totally abandon armed responses. Instead, author’s argument goes, should be con- tics he presents should not dissuade the he proposes other purposes for the armed sidered carefully. There are other means curious reader). In fact, in two appendi- forces that, together with economic strate- besides bullets and cruise missiles. The ces, O’Hanlon explains how he predicts gies, would make continuing the aggres- other weapon is, for now, something that such technological change and even sion as difficult for the aggressor as it the U.S. can still brandish with great effect: grades himself on predictions he made would be for the U.S. to respond. In short, it can wield a very hefty economic stick. of current military tech 10 years earlier the author proposes economic sanctions To support his contention that a costly in a separate publication (Incidentally, he coupled to naval or ground interventions military action is inadvisable when small gave himself an “A-“)! that are far from the Chinese or Russian stakes are involved, O’Hanlon provides a Similarly, there is an equally digestible mainland, and utilizing allied assistance wonderful, easily understandable journey survey of the machinations of the world that, for the most part, slow or curtail the into military technology and its applica- economy from the military perspective, flow of money or goods into either nation’s tions in the theater of war. As mentioned, and where the vulnerabilities of the U.S. economy. This tactic takes the U.S. military the globalization of technology has all economy lie. To me, this was a fascinat- effort far from the aggressor, stretching out but eliminated U.S. air, naval, and ground ing chapter because, as I suspect, the the enemy’s assets and logistical efforts forces hegemony. How that effects U.S. economy remains a black box of com- as far or farther from their homeland than field operations is described from a com- plication to most of us. This is not a very those of the U.S. For China, that might fortably high level that will be accessible in-depth chapter nor does it contain any mean slowing maritime freight (strategic to most readers. It is as interesting as it math, modeling, or even a few predictive minerals) out of Africa or the Middle East is cautionary. He focuses of course, on economic equations. It is a high altitude (oil for example), employing U.S. naval comparisons with Russian and Chinese overview, mainly focused on strategic intervention to ultimately slow elements assets, the two potential aggressors pos- materials useful for manufacturing the of the Chinese economy. Coupled to this tulated in his initial argument of propor- equipment that have implications in a con- would be economic sanctions imposed tional response. The bonus here is that flict, but it also covers how these materials on the aggressor nation. Russia could O’Hanlon is unafraid to predict what the move around the globe to build the prod- expect the U.S. and its allies to purchase future of military technology will look like. ucts we are so familiar with (computer tech- gas elsewhere. Incorporating the assis- He must, because to make his case he nology being the most prominent). Again, tance of U.S. allies is key as they are more must convince the reader to abandon the China and Russia as the primary competi- dependent on Russian supplies and, with notion that the U.S. will easily and inevi- tors are the focus of a comparison with the their assistance, the economic noose can tably prevail in any military action. If the U.S. Here, O’Hanlon’s crystal ball is also be tightened as much as is needed. This gap between U.S. enemies has closed, invoked to help predict what the strategic two pronged approach, while not nec- any military exercise, especially one far economic landscape of 2040 will look like. essarily immediately effective (in fact, it from U.S. shores and, in fact, proximal to The end result: the military hegemony of is unlikely to be), is proffered as a much the aggressor as O’Hanlon postulates, the U.S. is not likely to assure success in more proportional response to a small will be a difficult and costly venture. The faraway theaters now or 40 years hence. stakes power grab by either U.S. rival and trend is likely to continue with the U.S. in The world has already changed to meet one more likely to be accepted politically
Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 59 Book Review
at home and by U.S. allies, as long as the These appendices are as well-written precious little about nuclear weapons, but aggression is seen to be so serious that as the main text is. Moreover, the informa- remember that a reason for the existence should it go unanswered it may preclude tion they contain on military technology is of this book is to present a policy to avoid more significant aggression. fascinating. The author—avoiding a rabbit escalation of a limited aggression by an With this narrowly-focused problem, hole—emphasizes only key areas that are adversary and the potential military esca- the added attraction of comparisons with impactful to U.S. security. It is supportive of lation to a level where nuclear weapons the two major rivals of the U.S. for global his arguments and simultaneously informa- may be considered. political influence, and predictions of what tive. His self-assessment of predicting mil- Coincidentally, as I write this review, the military strengths of the nation will be itary technological progress is also quite tensions between China and the U.S. based on economic prowess in 2040, one a learning experience. It goes without over Taiwan have escalated. Twenty-six has a supremely fascinating read made saying that showcasing the author’s Chinese warplanes recently entered only more accessible by O’Hanlon’s gift of predictive ability does not come off as a Taiwan’s air defense zone over a con- interesting expository writing. It is far from conceit (it was fun to read about), but is secutive two-day period (January 2021). dry, to the point, and yes, comprehensible. meant to illustrate how military progress The Chinese apparently also carried It is thoroughly well-written from stem to is made, in what areas, and what those out an exercise against the U.S.S. Theo- stern. It is not a novel but it almost achieves impacts are on field capability and the risk/ dore Roosevelt aircraft carrier stationed the level of enjoyment one experiences benefit decision to initiate war. O’Hanlon in the area. A spokesperson for the U.S. when reading a good story. O’Hanlon is has gifted the reader with an estimate of Indo-Pacific Command indicated that this gifted. It is that simple. where the U.S. will be militarily in 40 years is a continued attempt by China to use its O’Hanlon’s argument is presented in and thus how well it can perform against military as a “tool to intimidate.” China’s six chapters. The first two introduce and future Chinese and Russian forces in a development of anti-ship missiles is no expand on the issue of proportionate real conflict. The conclusion, that the effort doubt fueling this muscle-flexing. This is a response, while the third is a “crystal ball” will be difficult, supports his contention very harsh reminder that O’Hanlon is not chapter, projecting what the technological for smart, strategic, thoughtful responses speaking theoretically. The U.S. is facing a and military world of the great powers will to small scale incursions designed to test new reality in which potentially aggressive look like in 20 years. Chapter four explains U.S. and allied resolve—responses that antidemocratic nations, fueled by their O’Hanlon’s limited military intervention, may slow, divert, and perhaps even end relatively newfound wealth, have become supported by his plan to introduce eco- the conflict before it can escalate towards worthy battlefield opponents. O’Hanlon is nomic sanctions as described in chapter a nuclear conclusion. trying to shake up old-school American five, and the argument is completed by a This fine discussion is supplemented thinking. We won’t necessarily win a fight final chapter of conclusions and recom- with three black and white maps of poten- far from our shores that are proximal to mendations. But that is not all. There is tial areas of conflict, notably the Pacific, the enemy—or find it advisable to enter bonus material. O’Hanlon, who rightfully Indian, and European theaters. There are into it over small stakes (that may be oblit- provides as much material to support his 39 full pages of notes followed by a nine- erated in a full-scale response). We need contention as possible included the two page index. I counted 13 useful tables, to exploit our strengths: the economic aforementioned appendices: one discuss- including those in the two appendices. clout of the U.S. and its allies. Together ing military developments from 2000 to That is all this book needs. It rests on the that power is much greater than China’s 2020 and one projecting the advances firm bedrock of good writing, persuasive or Russia’s. With a shrewd supportive mil- in military tech from 2020 to 2040. The arguments, some interesting data, a bit itary response, a U.S. coalition can inflict first includes O’Hanlon’s self-assessment of statistics (again, do not fear) and the enough economic damage to stem further looking back on his predictions made in author’s broad understanding of politi- aggression before the nuclear option is 2000, which he uses to imply that his clair- cal science and the logistics of warfare. ever considered. voyance about the next 20 years can be Because it goes beyond just military strat- considered acceptably accurate. egy, the book is a resource. There may be
60 Journal of Nuclear Materials Management 2020-2021 Volume XLVIII No. 3 & 4 August 21-26, 2021
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The Journal of Nuclear Materials Management is the official journal of Format: All papers must include: the Institute of Nuclear Materials Management. It is a peer-reviewed, • Corresponding author’s complete name, telephone number and email multidisciplinary journal that publishes articles on new developments, address innovations, and trends in safeguards and management of nuclear • Name and address of the organization where the work was materials. Specific areas of interest include facility operations, performed international safeguards, materials control and accountability, • Abstract nonproliferation and arms control, packaging, transportation and • Tables, figures, and photographs in TIFF, JPEG, or GIF formats. Color disposition, and physical protection. JNMM also publishes book reviews, is preferred. letters to the editor, and editorials. • Numbered references in the following format: 1. Jones, F. T., and L. K. Chang. 1980. Article Title. Journal 47(No. 2): Submission of Manuscripts: JNMM reviews papers for publication with 112–118. 2. Jones, F. T. 1976. Title of Book, New York: McMillan the understanding that the work was not previously published and is not Publishing. being reviewed for publication elsewhere. This restriction includes papers • Author(s) biography and photos presented at the INMM Annual Meeting. Papers may be of any length. All • A list of keywords papers must include an abstract. Download the article template from the INMM website. The Journal of Nuclear Materials Management is an English-language publication. We encourage all authors to have their papers reviewed The Journal of Nuclear Materials Management does not print “foot by editors or professional translators for proper English usage prior to notes.” We publish references and/or end notes. If you choose to include submission. both references and notes, you may combine them under the same heading or you may keep them separate, in which case you must use Papers should be submitted as Word or ASCII text files only. Graphic numbers for the References (1., 2., 3., etc.) and letters (A., B., C., etc.) for elements must be sent in TIFF, JPEG or GIF formats as separate the End Notes. electronic files. JNMM is published digitally in full color. Color graphics and images are Submissions may be made via email to Managing Editor Lisa Howard- preferred. Fusco at [email protected]. Peer Review: Each paper is reviewed by at least one associate editor Download an article template for the proper format for articles and by two or more reviewers. Papers are evaluated according to their submitted to JNMM for possible peer review. relevance and significance to nuclear materials safeguards, degree to which they advance knowledge, quality of presentation, soundness of Papers are acknowledged upon receipt and are submitted promptly for methodology, and appropriateness of conclusions. review and evaluation. Generally, the corresponding author is notified within ninety days of submission of the original paper whether the paper Author Review: Accepted manuscripts become the permanent property is accepted, rejected, or subject to revision. of INMM and may not be published elsewhere without permission from the managing editor. Authors are responsible for all statements made in their work. ADVANCING TOGETHER: INNOVATION AND RESILIENCE IN NUCLEAR MATERIALS MANAGEMENT
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