Terrestrial radioecology
Radio ecology comprises the study and knowledge of the occurrence, transport and effects of radioactive elements in different eco systems and food chains. The subject radio ecology is a combined scientific field of research, with roots in physics, biology and soil science. One important aspect of radio ecology is to provide founded critical limits for radiation amounts for human beings, as well as provide recommendations and guidelines for minimization of these amounts.
The unit for radio ecology at the institute of soil and environment has a focus on research of terrestrial radio ecology. Radio nuclides of particular interest are 137Cs, 134Cs, 40K and 90Sr. Our work consists of research, protection from and measurements of radio activity in case of crisis, environmental monitoring and education. We study for example the spreading and transport processes of radioactive elements in air, water, soil and plants in different eco systems. Our group collaborates both on a national and international basis in different projects and has a well established network.
• Radioecology in agriculture and forestry, both general and project specific research
• Environmental monitoring of presence and behavior of radio nuclides in different ecosystems - time series have been recorded for soil, vegetation and wildlife since the nuclear accident in Chernobyl 1986.
• Radiation safety - we are one of six national laboratories that have been assigned and trained by the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM). We are on standby and prepared for the event a nuclear calamity.
• Natural radiation in soil and vegetation and protection of the environment.