German border towns demand transparency and compensation over Swiss nuclear waste repository plan

Switzerland plans to bury its high-level radioactive waste in a deep geological repository at Stadel, located only three kilometres from the German municipality of Hohentengen. The site was selected because of a roughly 100-metre-thick opalinuston rock layer, which Nagra considers optimal for long-term storage. German authorities, represented by the National Accompanying Committee, have engaged with border towns to exchange perspectives and gather experience from the Swiss process.

Marion Durst of the NBG highlighted the importance of technical safety, transparency, clear roles and genuine participation for building regional trust. Local German officials, including Martin Kistler and Martin Steinebrunner, argue that the proximity of the repository demands compensation and early inclusion of affected communities. Swiss Federal Councilor Albert Rösti confirmed that appropriate compensation will be arranged for residents on both sides of the border, though the final decision on the site is expected around 2031, with construction slated for the mid-2030s and waste emplacement beginning around 2050.