Programchef Justin Gwynn, Statens strålevern, Polar Environmental Centre, Tromsø

The NKS/B program

The aim of the NKS/B program is to strengthen

• radiological emergency preparedness

• management of radioactive waste and discharges

• radioecology and environmental assessments

in the Nordic countries.

In many cases, these issues give rise to considerable public concern. Activities on information strategies, - management and - technologies in relation to the themes mentioned above are therefore included in the program.

Two main aspects are given top priority:

• Maintaining and building up competence

• Maintaining and building close informal Nordic networks between scientists in emergency preparedness related disciplines

Challenges

Emergency preparedness has been a major priority in all the Nordic countries for many years. One of the major challenges is the complexity of the systems and the need to integrate knowledge from many different areas (nuclear physics, measurement techniques, environmental sciences, radiobiology, information and communication technology etc.). Continuous development and improvement is necessary and existing knowledge and tools must be made and kept operational.

In addition to the threats from potential nuclear accidents, threats related to the possibility of malicious uses of radioactive or nuclear substances are now seen as a major concern. The case of polonium-210 poisoning and contamination in London in November 2006 is an example of an unexpected situation that demonstrates new challenges related to, e.g., special competence regarding measurement/analytical techniques and radiation protection assessments. Optimized use of the national resources and the potential need for assistance between neighbouring countries is also a challenge. The communication with media and individual members of the public is also a challenge in such situations, and common Nordic views and approaches are important to maintain public confidence.

Issues related to decommissioning of nuclear installations will require increased attention in years to come. In this process, radioactive waste will be generated, and in some cases some releases of radioactivity may occur.

During the last 30 years or so, a lot of experience and knowledge regarding consequences of radioactive discharges, fallout and environmental radioactivity have been gained. The research has to a large extent focused on the behaviour of a few important radionuclides. This competence and knowledge must be maintained and further developed to include a wider range of relevant radionuclides.

In the past, radiation protection criteria were developed only for humans, and it was assumed that by protecting man, other species would be protected to an acceptable degree. In recent years several problems have been identified with this existing tenet, with the result that systems for protection of flora and fauna, per se, are being developed and tested. Several knowledge gaps relating to this have already been identified, especially with regard to radionuclide uptake, transfer and biological response indicators. Furthermore, there is a need to obtain more experience in the practical application of environmental protection frameworks in typical Nordic environments.

Since 2004, uranium prices have increased sharply, leading to a higher interest in uranium prospecting, and also thorium, in several Nordic countries. Mining and milling for uranium and thorium, and also some other metals, give rise to waste rock and tailings with enhanced concentrations of radioactive substances from the natural series, and there is public concern about the radiation safety and environmental contamination. A wide range of monitoring and measurement techniques will be needed for the risk assessments.

Finally, in order to maintain a high level of competence in the longer perspective, it is important to ensure that enough young people choose to specialize in radiation protection and related studies. In most Nordic countries, the number of experts is limited. The university sector plays an important role, and must be stimulated to offer courses, relevant thesis projects and to carry out research projects.

NKS Sekretariatet

Boks 49

DK - 4000 Roskilde

Telefon +45 4677 4045

Fax +45 4677 4046

In English