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Radioactive contamination in the Arctic--sources, dose assessment and potential risks
P Strand1, B J Howard, A Aarkrog
1Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, 0sterås. per.strand@nrpa.no
Journal of Environmental Radioactivity
|April 9, 2002
Summary
Arctic residents face higher radiation exposure from artificial radionuclides due to traditional diets. Nuclear accidents pose the greatest threat to Arctic human health and the environment.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiation Biology
- Arctic Studies
Background:
- Arctic populations consume traditional foods high in artificial radionuclides.
- Terrestrial and freshwater food chains exhibit high radiocaesium transfer and long ecological half-lives.
- Indigenous Arctic peoples are particularly vulnerable to radiocaesium deposition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess radiation exposure risks to Arctic residents from artificial radionuclides.
- To compare radiation doses in Arctic populations with those in temperate regions.
- To identify key threats to human health and the Arctic environment from nuclear activities.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of dietary consumption patterns of Arctic populations.
- Assessment of radiocaesium transfer through terrestrial and freshwater food chains.
- Estimation of radiation doses based on arctic-specific data and comparison with global estimates.
Main Results:
- Arctic residents consuming terrestrial/freshwater foods receive higher radiation doses.
- Radiocaesium deposition poses a greater risk in the Arctic than in temperate zones.
- Predicted collective dose in the Arctic is five times higher than in temperate areas.
- Nuclear accidents represent the most significant threat to the Arctic environment and health.
Conclusions:
- Dietary habits significantly influence radiation exposure levels in Arctic populations.
- Vulnerability to radiocaesium is amplified in the Arctic due to specific ecological factors.
- Urgent need for integrated risk assessment and practical response strategies for nuclear threats in the Arctic.
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