Leftover waste from defunct nuclear testing sites poses a danger to people and the environment. Meet the ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ experts who help dispose of radioactive waste and develop new anti-contamination methods for our country.
In the 20th century, a push for nuclear weapons granted the U.S. a massive amount of power on the world’s stage. The development and deployment of these weapons left an impact on history during World War II and the Cold War. Since then, a continued dedication to nuclear energy has secured the United States’ position as a leader in the space.
Operations like the Manhattan Project, the first U.S. program to develop a nuclear weapon, were huge undertakings. Sites the size of cities were built around the country to host those working on the weapons, testing, nuclear reactors, and more.Â
While the outcomes of these programs were world-changing, the byproducts are extremely hazardous. From groundwater contaminated with chemicals around testing sites to radioactive parts and equipment, the effects pose a serious risk to the environment, humans, and animals that inhabit it.
used to refine nuclear materials during the atomic age.
of high-level nuclear waste estimated to have been left behind.
of water was contaminated - 99% of it was groundwater.
How do Vanderbilt engineers help improve the clean-up process?
Meet CRESP – The Consortium for Risk Evaluation with Stakeholder Participation Objective: a group of universities and experts who aim to advance the cleanup of the nation’s nuclear weapons production waste sites and make sure future nuclear sites are as safe as possible.
Scholars and experts in CRESP work together to provide objective, science-based advice to the government to guide its environmental management decisions. They make sure projects are efficient and safe, and set the next generation of engineers up for success.
Much of CRESP’s work focuses on remediating the toxic environments left behind by the Manhattan Project. Currently, they’re focused on four of the most contaminated sites:
As an independent government partner, the consortium is continuously consulting on past sites and future projects, building solutions, and educating and engaging those affected by Department of Energy actions.
Department of Energy sites served
major reports & reviews aiding the Department of Energy
multi-disciplinary research areas – engineering, sciences, social sciences & law
As an unbiased government partner, CRESP conducts interdisciplinary research, assessments, education, and independent reviews – continuously consulting on clean-up projects and future builds.
ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ is a Tier 1 research institution and global hub for groundbreaking discoveries. Always rooted in our core vales: Collaboration, critical thinking, respect, innovation, and scholarship, we're focused on fostering positive change in our world.