World Nuclear Transport Conference 2025 Establishes New Annual Forum for the Sector

The World Nuclear Transport Institute is proud to announce the successful launch of the World Nuclear Transport Conference, held for the first time in London this November. The event brought together specialists, regulators and industry leaders from across more than 18 countries, reflecting growing global recognition of transport’s central role in the future of nuclear technologies.

Across the two days, delegates agreed that the nuclear transport sector is reaching a defining moment: rapid technological change and increasing climate pressures are raising expectations of what transport systems must deliver. As several speakers observed, transport has become an enabler of the entire nuclear future—not a background function.

A major theme was the need for early and integrated transport planning for emerging nuclear systems. WNTI’s CEO, opening the conference, stressed that technology deployment—whether in microreactors, floating nuclear power plants, HALEU-fuelled systems or advanced propulsion—will only succeed if transport is prepared in advance. This message was echoed repeatedly by participants throughout the event.

Sessions addressing new fuels, microreactor deployment and marine propulsion outlined both technical advances and the expanding complexity of transport interfaces. Discussions on HALEU transport and evolving fuel cycles highlighted the urgency of developing transport frameworks that can keep pace with innovation.

Societal perception was explored from several angles, including the psychology of nuclear risk and real-world pressures on medical isotope logistics. Particular attention was given to the implications of shifting A1/A2 limits for actinium and other alpha-therapy sources, where transport constraints have direct impact on patient-critical supply chains.

International regulatory development was another recurring topic. Representatives from the IAEA, IMO, OECD NEA and ICRP provided detailed updates on work related to maritime frameworks, radiological protection, cross-border legal requirements and wider regulatory reform. Their contributions demonstrated strong momentum toward greater global alignment—viewed by delegates as essential for ensuring that new nuclear systems can be licensed, financed and operated internationally.

Skills, capability and future workforce needs also emerged as a crucial issue. Contributions from the World Maritime University, UKAEA and early-career professionals illustrated the urgency of attracting and retaining talent in a sector where technology is advancing faster than workforce capacity. Delegates recognised the important role of WNTI’s newly launched Centre of Excellence, established under the 2025–2030 Strategy, in supporting training and capability development.

The conference also placed emphasis on sustainability challenges. Debates covered proportionate treatment of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) and the increasingly complex demands surrounding spent fuel transport. Speakers highlighted that effective long-term management will require both pragmatic regulation and enhanced international coordination.

WNTI will now progress the conference’s outcomes into clear workstreams, ensuring that the insights generated move directly into industry practice, regulatory dialogue and technical development. Delegates welcomed this commitment, noting that the inaugural conference has already begun shaping the direction of the sector.

WNTI looks forward to hosting the next World Nuclear Transport Conference, continuing to build the international cooperation needed for the future of nuclear transport.