Terradura - A name that lasts.

Switzerland is making history: the deep geological repository for safe underground disposal of radioactive waste is getting a name: "Terradura" – a symbol of responsibility, trust and the future.

Thank you, Switzerland, for all the creativity and for every vote cast.

The five finalists

Terradura - 39.4% of the votes
From “terra dura” – “solid earth”; stands for stability, depth and the assurance that permanence begins in the ground.

ATLASuisse - 23.4% of the votes
A name of both acronym and myth – ATLAS stands for the strength and responsibility Switzerland upholds.

Soluterra - 17.8% of the votes
The Earth is the solution – a name that unites connection, insight and responsibility in a single thought.

Peradina - 12.5% of the votes
From Romansh “per adina” – “forever”; an expression of endurance, trust and commitment across generations.

Stadelnova - 6.9% of the votes
“Stadel” – the site where the repository will stand – combined with “nova” – new: a symbol of change through time.

What makes a strong name

There’s no perfect formula – but there are a few helpful hints. The following aren’t strict rules, but guiding thoughts to help you find a name that truly fits.

Meaningful

The name should reflect the place, the region and the purpose of the project.

Memorable

We’re looking for a name that is simple, catchy and easy to remember.

Multilingual

The name should work across all language regions of Switzerland.

Constructive

The name should not polarise – but build trust: clear, respectful and open to the future.

Initiated by: Namensforum Tiefenlager Schweiz

Behind the naming initiative is a panel of experts who ensure that the  standards of this project of the century. The jury consists of representatives from institutions involved in the repository project – from science, public administration, regional participation and communication.

Dominik
Bonderer

Head of Communications, Building Department, Canton of Zurich;
representing the Cantonal Commission and the siting canton

Reto
Grossmann

Municipal Councillor, Stadel; Regional Conference

Philipp
Senn

Member of the Executive Board, Nagra

Lisa
Stalder

Communications Specialist, Member of the Nuclear Waste Management
Advisory Board

Thierry
Strässle

Paul Scherrer Institute PSI, Member of Nagra’s Board of Directors

Patrick
Studer

Head of Communications / Media Spokesperson, Nagra

Gabriela
Winkler

Communications and Industry Expert, Regional Conference

Luca
Rüedi

Citizen Representative, Regional Conference

Martin
Künzi

Brand Identity Expert, Mosaik & Partners

Terms of participation

  • Participation is open to all individuals residing in Switzerland.
  • Each person can vote only once.
  • The voting is open from 4 to 24 November 2025.
  • Your data will be used solely for this naming initiative and will not be shared with third parties.
  • No correspondence will be entered into regarding the name selection. Legal recourse is excluded.
Projekt 100 background