Capriano del Colle radioactive waste cleanup ahead of schedule

The remediation of the former Metalli Capra landfill in Capriano del Colle, Brescia, is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. This marks the conclusion of a 36-year effort to secure radioactive waste at the site, finishing approximately six months ahead of the original June 2027 deadline.

The €9 million project has been accelerated by using two machines simultaneously to construct a 30-meter-deep concrete perimeter diaphragm. This barrier is designed to prevent rainwater from infiltrating the site and creating leachate. Additionally, the installation of waterproof capping materials is roughly 75% complete.

Following the completion of the safety measures, the project will move into a phase involving the transfer of ownership and the designation of an entity responsible for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. Local authorities noted that the municipality lacks the technical and economic resources to manage such radioactive materials, meaning management will likely remain under regional or provincial jurisdiction.