This paper summarises the current methodology used in England for assessing the impact on the foodchain of radioactive waste discharges, the improvements currently being implemented, and describes the supporting R&D. Research on terrestrial pathways is focused on gaining a better understanding of the interception of radioactivity by crop surfaces, the dynamic behaviour of mobile contaminants and a concerted programme to improve the modelling of the uptake of radioactivity into fruit. Research on aquatic pathways includes development of near-field dispersion models, gut uptake studies, and the influence of chemical processes on radionuclide uptake by sediments nad colloids. These programmes are being complemented by studies to quantify the uncertainty and variability of radiological assessments, and the development of more of robust methodologies for assessing the habits of the most exposed members of the public.
展开▼
