Radioactive Waste

The Problem

Radiation occurs when unstable radioisotopes breakdown to a more stable form, releasing energy. Several different types of radiation can be emitted, each with a different degree of ionisation potential and ability to penetrate solid mater.

High levels of ionisation are lethal to living tissue. Lower levels may result in genetic damage or cancers.

Nuclear reactors discharge radioactive substances as standard. This occurs via cooling water discharge and other liquid waste effluent. Reprocessing of nuclear waste also results in significant discharges of radioactive substances from sites such Sellafield. This discharge includes substances such as strontium-90 that have long half-lives (i.e. stay radioactive for a long time, often many years).

Nuclear accidents result in the release of huge levels of radioactive material into the atmosphere. Much of the fallout can eventually end up in the marine environment.

Many radioisotopes discharged into the marine environment are adsorbed onto the sediment but can also be ingested by marine life. Particles deposited on drying mudbanks could potentially be mobilised by the wind and inhaled. Once ingested, radioactive particles can cause much more damage.

Recreational water users near nuclear facilities are at a high risk of being exposed to these radioactive particles via a number of different pathways.

The Solution

Sandside Bay, sits in the shadow of the Dounreay nuclear reprocessing plant on the north Scottish coast. A great surf break, the beach is effectively off limits to surfers, due to the high concentrations of radioactive particles being found on the beach and in the surrounding water environment.

The key problem with nuclear power is there is no solution. Waste created from the nuclear industry is waste forever.

SAS believe the best way forward in protecting the water environment from this type of energy is to develop and encourage technologies involved in producing renewable energy. Learn more from visiting our Clean and Offshore Energy campaign page.

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4th Apr 05	Reactor Fuel Particle Found On Scottish Beach, Should Be The Catalyst To Embrace Cleaner, Safer, Energy Sources Say Surfers
25th Jul 02	Surfers fear over radioactive beaches

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