The Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency on Thursday approved the recycling of iron waste from Japan Atomic Power Co.'s dismantled Tokai power station in Tokaimura, Ibaraki Prefecture. Such scrap metal has previously been disposed underground.

The agency is part of the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry. However, the ministry has decided to apply for the first time a "clearance system," which will make waste construction material exposed to radiation levels that are significantly lower than that found naturally not subject to radioactive waste regulations.

The dismantling and rebuilding of nuclear power plants across the country is expected to increase around 2030, creating more than several hundred thousand tons of waste.