This publication was developed with the intention of offering the nonexpert a concise, balanced introduction to nuclear waste. It outlines the dimensions of the problem, discussing the types and quantities of waste. Included are the sources, types, and hazards of radiation, and some of the history, major legislation, and current status of both high level and low level waste management. Also described are some of the ways that citizens can participate in nuclear waste decision making and selected information sources. The booklet includes sections dealing with: (1) types of waste; (2) the nuclear fuel cycle; (3) decommissioning; (4) sources, types, measures, and the biological effects of radiation; (5) high-level wastes from reprocessing; (6) spent fuel; (7) low-level and transuranic wastes; (8) uranium mill tailings; (9) transporting nuclear wastes; (10) liability coverage for accidents; (11) high-level waste management; (12) low-level waste management; (13) searching for permanent solutions; and (14) the public's role in high-level and low-level waste management. (TW)