Uranium is mined by in-situ leaching (57% of world production) or by conventional underground or open-pit mining of ores (43% of production). During in-situ mining, a leaching solution is pumped down drill holes into the uranium ore deposit where it dissolves the ore minerals.

Two uranium mines operate in Australia at the present time, Ranger in the Northern Territory and Olympic Dam in South Australia. The Olympic Dam mine is owned by WMC and is situated in a remote arid part of South Australia.

Regardless of how uranium is removed from rock, the extraction process creates radioactive wastes. If not managed properly, mining waste and mill tailings can contaminate the environment.

Australia’s uranium has been mined since 1954, and three mines are currently operating. More are planned. Australia’s known uranium resources are the world’s largest – almost one-third of the world total.

Executive Summary. Australia has the world’s largest resources of low-cost uranium. Australia currently exports about 10 000 tonnes of uranium oxide per year from three operating uranium mines.

Australia’s commitment Australian government legislation and policy prohibits the import of radioactive waste. Spent fuel from the OPAL reactor is reprocessed overseas. High level radioactive (HLW) waste is not stored or disposed of in Australia.

Nuclear waste is much different from what you might think. When most people talk about nuclear waste, they’re referring to fuel that’s been used in a reactor once. Nuclear fuel is used to produce electricity for about five years. Then, it’s removed and safely stored until a permanent disposal site becomes available.

Top 10: Which are the most radioactive foods?

1. Brazil nuts. Advertisement. pCi* per kg: 12,000.
2. Butter beans. pCi per kg: 4,600. pCi per serving: 460.
3. Bananas. pCi per kg: 3,500. pCi per serving: 420.
4. Potatoes. pCi per kg: 3,400.
5. Carrots. pCi per kg: 3,400.
6. Red meat. pCi per kg: 3,000.
7. Avocados. pCi per kg: 2,500.
8. Beer. pCi per kg: 390.

Eating Brazil nuts may reduce inflammation, support brain function, and improve your thyroid function and heart health. To avoid consuming too much selenium, limit your intake to one to three Brazil nuts per day.

140 Brazil nuts

Macadamia nuts

Six most healthful nuts

1. Peanuts. Share on Pinterest Peanuts are often more affordable than other types of nut.
2. Almonds. Almonds have become increasingly popular in recent years, and they are now readily available in many places.
3. Pistachios.
4. Cashews.
5. Walnuts.
6. Hazelnuts.