When it comes to the safe, long-term storage of low-level radioactive waste, the world is learning from the Port Hope Area Initiative (PHAI). Recently, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) welcomed a delegation from Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KA CARE) through the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Scientific Visit program.
The visit, held August 18–20, 2025, was organized through the IAEA, which selected the PHAI’s Long-Term Waste Management Facilities (LTWMFs) in Port Hope and Port Granby as projects of international interest for KA CARE to benchmark against. The visit showcased Canada’s leadership in safe waste storage and environmental stewardship, while providing an opportunity for international exchange on technology, regulatory approaches, and lessons learned.
Visitors from Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy toured the PHAI facilities in Port Hope and Port Granby as part of an IAEA Scientific Visit. CNL is proud to showcase Canadian expertise and the important work happening in our community.
Led by Dr. Mohammed Garwan, Chief of Engineering and Nuclear Project Management, and Mr. Saif Al Qahtani, Stakeholder Management Manager, the delegation included specialists in radioactive waste facility management, environmental monitoring, health physics, and emergency response. Their participation reflected Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on managing naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) and other industrial by-products as the country diversifies its energy mix under Vision 2030.
During their time in Port Hope, the KA CARE team attended technical presentations, toured the Port Hope and Port Granby LTWMFs along with their wastewater treatment plants, and engaged in discussions on regulation, licensing, environmental studies, safety cases, and transportation of waste.
The visit was marked by open dialogue and a genuine spirit of collaboration. Delegates expressed appreciation not only for the technical insights shared, but also for the professionalism and hospitality of CNL staff, noting that the experience personified Canada’s reputation as both experts in the field and gracious hosts.
CNL extends its thanks to the many staff who contributed to this successful visit: Scott Cameron, Bill Daly, George Al Haddad, Mark Owen, Ajit Ghuman, Brooks Gummow, Stephen Morris, Marc Mireault, and Brooklyn Hamilton. Special recognition goes to Jennifer Turner, CNL’s representative to the IAEA ENVIRONET Steering Committee, for her leadership in coordinating the visit.
By sharing knowledge and building connections through initiatives like this, CNL continues to strengthen Canada’s role as a trusted global partner. PHAI — through the Port Hope and Port Granby LTWMFs — stands as a Canadian success story that continues to attract international interest and provide lasting lessons for sustainable low-level radioactive waste management worldwide.
