Why discuss?

Energy - a source of debate

The energy sector—nuclear energy in particular—is a source of ongoing debate. The general public is interested in energy and the challenges it poses for the future, and seeks greater transparency. With so much information available online, it is sometimes difficult to find the answers you need. AREVA takes its social responsibility seriously, providing reliable, educational information and continually encouraging dialogue and consultation.

Continuous improvement toward transparency

For more than 10 years, AREVA has pursued a policy of information transparency with its various stakeholders. This approach has been applied through a policy of proactive and open communication based on clear principles—going to the public and keeping stakeholders informed—and has resulted in implementation of several concrete actions:

• Distribution of information to more people thanks to the Internet:
  • 1999: 24-hour web cams installed at the La Hague site, a global first for the industry
  • 2001: data on fuel treatment production and related transport programs released
• Publication of AREVA’s first general inspection report on the safety of its facilities in 2006
• Publication and widespread distribution of fact sheets and brochures on scientific and technical subjects linked to group activities
• Active promotion of production site tours

Being accountable and creating the conditions for dialogue

Always conscious of the need to report activities to stakeholders, the group has pursued a policy of dialogue in all countries where it has a presence. AREVA has unveiled a number of initiatives aimed at better understanding public concerns and reflecting more deeply on the issues.

Selected initiatives that have been implemented:

• In 2006, AREVA actively participated in 2 public debates: one on long-term waste management and the other on the installation of an EPR™ reactor in Flamanville.

• Every year since 2004, the group has undertaken an external consultation initiative—Stakeholders’ Session—led by Comité 21 and including a panel of stakeholders. Around 15 organizations participate including: NGOs involved in environmental protection, the promotion of renewable energy, North-South development and human rights; economic groups, both industrial and financial; and labor-related groups.

• In 2008, AREVA unveiled its "Energie recyclable ? Parlons-en!" website. This initiative has the same objectives: to nurture debate, encourage dialogue and ensure energy companies participate in daily life, with the aim of helping the general public form an opinion.

• In 2009, AREVA Inc. set up a blog to gather information and foster dialogue on many energy‑related issues, mainly in Canada and the United States.

These are the goals of this fully interactive new section, which clearly demonstrates the group’s commitment to listening to the public’s questions and providing answers.

This is your forum. Join us now to take part in the discussion!