Send message to Contributor

Short Abstract

Radiation measurements by citizen have limited uses in scientific studies and by regulators. However, the social importance of citizen data cannot be ignored anymore, especially in emergency situations. What are the necessary conditions for increasing the use of these citizen data by regulators?

Abstract

Emerging in late-1990s in Belarus, citizen-led radiation measurements fostered a practical radiation protection culture among populations in contaminated areas. These initiatives surged in 2011–12 after the Fukushima accident, driven by public distrust in Japanese authorities’ data. The rise of internet and social media further amplified data sharing and visibility. Recently, renewed interest has emerged due to uncertainties in Eastern Europe. However, citizen measurements remain confined to personal environmental monitoring and educational purposes, with minimal adoption by authorities for environmental monitoring or radiological emergencies.

The constraints on using citizen radioactivity data—whether for environmental monitoring or emergencies—were discussed at a recent European meeting involving regulators, experts, and citizen network representatives. Key challenges include the quality of measurements and interoperability, influenced by technical, educational, and operational factors. Additionally, radiation measurements inherently carry a political dimension, tied to health and environmental concerns, requiring citizen networks to address pedagogical aspects.

The Fukushima accident demonstrated that regulators and decision-makers can no longer dismiss citizen data. They must now incorporate these measurements—despite their uncertainties—into decision-making processes. This necessitates dialogue between authorities, experts, and citizen networks to ensure data reliability and utility in all scenarios.

The path forward requires improving measurement standards, fostering trust, and integrating citizen data into official frameworks. Collaboration is essential to overcome technical and political barriers, transforming grassroots initiatives into recognized tools for radiological risk management.