Citizen Science in Radioactivity Measurement: Empowering Europeans for Better Environmental Monitoring
This one-day workshop will delve into European initiatives focused on citizen-led radioactivity measurements, highlighting existing projects and discussing the challenges they face. The event aims to foster collaboration and explore future opportunities to strengthen the European dimension of citizen science in radiation monitoring. Key objectives include ensuring the sustainability of citizen initiatives and integrating citizen data into decision-making processes, with a particular focus on widening participation in Eastern Europe.
In the aftermath of the Fukushima accident, citizen measurements of ambient radioactivity emerged as a powerful tool to reassure people about their living conditions and to empower them in radiation protection principles. This allowed people living in contaminated countries to make informed choices in daily life. Since then, several initiatives were developed to propose to citizen participating into such projects on radioactivity measurements. Some of these projects are also strongly involved in educational and awareness raising actions, especially in the vicinity of nuclear installations.
This one-day workshop proposes an overview of currently existing projects in Europe about radioactivity measurements by citizen, their structure and their current objectives. An exhibition of some materials is planned. This workshop will also discuss existing gaps and difficulties, and potential future projects, especially in the evolving context in Eastern Europe.