title: Should uniform release criteria be established for metal recycling?
abstract: This debate examines the potential benefits and pitfalls associated with the recycling of metals and other materials contaminated with low or trace amounts of radioactive material. As is often the case when discussing radioactivity, the question arises as to the level that can be considered safe. Our debaters have taken somewhat different approaches to the question. On the one hand, the scientific basis for releasing slightly radioactive materials has been established in national and international standards. Therefore, there is presumably no technical reason for avoiding the use of such materials. However, the perception of the public regarding radioactivity must be considered in regulatory decisions on the use of slightly contaminated materials. If the results of the poll referred to in the debate are to be considered, then it may be difficult to sell products containing recycled radioactive material. Although this perception may be unwarranted, it is clear that it must be acknowledged and possibly mitigated. It is up to radiation protection professionals to provide relevant information so that the public can make informed decisions based on scientific facts. Of course, this is easy to suggest but difficult to implement.
authors.affiliation: Dade Moeller & Associates, Richland, Washington, USA.
authors.forename: W E
authors.initials: WE
authors.lastname: Kennedy
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: LaMastra
mesh_terms: D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D008670:Metals; D009688:Nuclear Reactors; D011835:Radiation Protection / Q000592:standards*; D011848:Radioactive Pollutants; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D008670:Metals; D011848:Radioactive Pollutants