The use of composite metrics to assess low-level radioactive waste disposal

Existing studies provide limited understanding of the radiological impacts linked to low-level radioactive waste (LLW) disposal. This study assesses USA's LLW disposal from 2000 to 2023, combining temporal, class-specific, and sectoral analyses. This study introduces an original composite indicator, disposal radiological potential (DRP), which links disposal volume and activity, as well as its cumulative value (CDRP), to examine LLW disposal. The peaks in LLW disposal volume per nuclear energy (m 3 /GWh) are primarily driven by major decommissioning activities. A sharp decline in 2021 (−69 %) highlights the impact of COVID-19 on LLW management. The fluctuations in DRP against associated radioactivity indicate a strong dual effect of LLW disposal volume and radioactivity. Cumulative DRP trends show Class A's (low activity, basic isolation) dominance in long-term impact (slope = 0.71, R 2 = 0.98) due to volume, while Class C, with high radiological intensity, showed moderate growth (slope = 0.07, R 2 = 0.71). A negative shift is observed in the utility sector for all classes against noticeable rises in the undefined sector. The sharp rise in the undefined sector suggests changes in reporting or aggregation methods. Other sectors contribute minimally (0 %–3 %), reinforcing the dominance of industrial and energy sources in LLW disposal radiological load. Multiple linear regression models (R 2 = 0.47–0.57, MSE <0.5) reveal the combined impact of energy activity and socioeconomic factors on LLW disposal, identifying GDPE, MHI, NM, and EC as significant predictors. Findings emphasize the need for class-specific risk strategies, improved classification, and socioeconomically informed LLW regulatory planning. • Cummulative trends show that volume and activity jointly increase the burden. • Class A dominates long-term DRP due to bulk volume despite low radioactivity. • 94 % DRP shift to undefined sector highlights the need for stricter reporting rules. • Class-wise MLR identifies hidden drivers for Class B/C specific energy policies. • DRP tracking can help states plan better LLW facility capacity.