The Nuclear Contamination of Kazakhstan

Abstract

This thesis studies the radioactive contamination of Kazakhstan\u27s environment, concentrating on the period between February 1989 and January 1993. For each type of nuclear degradation in Kazakhstan the thesis asks the questions: what is its cause and extent, what are its consequences for humans, and what are the human responses. The main causes of Kazakhstan\u27s nuclear devastation are atomic weapons\u27 tests, uranium mining, manufacturing of uranium fuel, and the operation of a fast breeder reactor power generator unit. The amount of radioactive contamination is colossal. The consequences for the health of the population, especially at Semey, are severe. The human responses have succeeded in stopping the testing, but additional steps should be taken. In the future Kazakhstan will need to deal with both the legacy it has inherited and with continuing nuclear activities--in order to save its land and people. Materials used in this study are in English or English translation