Conservatism versus sustainability: recognising the interconnectivity of ALARA and sustainability

Sustainability in its widest definition covers societal, economic and environmental factors and requires striking a balance between the needs of current and future generations. It is not always recognised that there is a link between sustainability and the work of radiological protection professionals. However, in managing safety and the environment, sustainability is an integral part of the radiological protection professionals' role. Improvements to sustainability performance can also improve safety and environmental performance, i.e. introducing energy-efficient lighting has environmental and economic benefits but often improves visibility, highlighting safety hazards. Yet, decisions around safety and the environment can be unsustainable. ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) captures the concept of sustainability as it requires the balance of safety with societal and economic impacts. However, by explicitly referencing the environment, and therefore sustainability, within the ALARA approach, alongside societal and economic impacts, the radiological protection profession can further worldwide sustainability goals.