News on the world's largest environmental cleanup
Office of Environmental Management
September 29, 2026
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Hanford Progressing Cleanup Mission, Starting Retrieval of Waste From 25th Tank
The Hanford Site is preparing to remove radioactive and chemical waste from its 25th underground storage tank, marking another milestone in the cleanup mission. 🛢️
Crews will retrieve approximately 385,000 gallons of decades-old waste from Tank A-103 and transfer it to a newer double-shell tank for safer storage. The work supports continued progress toward reducing environmental risk and advancing Hanford’s long-term tank waste cleanup. Read the full story to learn how the latest retrieval fits into plans to accelerate cleanup and reduce costs.
EM, NNSA Recover Equipment in Oak Ridge Cleanup for National Security Missions
A partnership at the Y-12 National Security Complex is preparing a Manhattan Project-era facility for demolition while recovering equipment for future national security missions. ♻️
Crews are deactivating the 313,000-square-foot Beta-4 facility and have recovered more than 550 reusable items that can support 76 National Nuclear Security Administration facilities at Y-12. Once demolition is complete, the cleared footprint will be returned to NNSA for future mission needs. Read the full story to learn how collaboration is reducing risks, reusing resources and preparing Y-12 for the future.
Moab Marks Removal of 17 Million Tons of Uranium Mill Tailings
The Moab Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action Project has reached a major cleanup milestone, removing 17 million tons of uranium mill tailings from along the Colorado River. 🚆
Since 2009, crews have transported the material by rail to an engineered disposal cell about 30 miles away. Read the full story to learn what’s next for cleanup at the Moab Site.
Opportunity, Progress Envisioned for New Scarboro Center Funded by EM Grant
The Scarboro community in Oak Ridge has broken ground on a first-of-its-kind community enrichment center made possible by a $2.4 million U.S. Department of Energy Office of Environmental Management grant. 🏗️
The new center will provide space for medical care, workforce training, community gatherings, small-business development and preserving Scarboro history. Read the full story to learn how the project is supporting community revitalization and creating new opportunities for residents.