U.S. nuclear cleanup shows signs of progress

The Dept. of Energy's Office of Environmental Management (EM) has announced plans to accelerate its nationwide cleanup of radioactive and hazardous wastes at its former nuclear weapons production sites and national laboratories. EM Asst. Undersecretary Alvin Alm aims to accomplish most of the cleanup of 130 sites by 2006 under his Ten-Year Plan. The EM will complete work at sites as soon as possible by building on the improvements introduced by former EM head Thomas Grumbly and by reducing risk and maintenance costs. Several government reports have criticized the office for its minimal cleanup accomplishments.