Task Group 99 Workshop:
Considering the Environment When Applying the System of Radiological Protection Part 1: Broadening the Reference Animals and Plants Approach and related Derived Consideration Reference Levels
26 June 2025 | 12:00 - 14:00 UTC | Virtual Event
ICRP Task Group 99 has prepared a report titled "Considering the Environment When Applying the System of Radiological Protection Part 1: Broadening the Reference Animals and Plants Approach and Related Derived Consideration Reference Levels." The report is available for public consultation until 8 August 2025. This workshop will highlight key elements of the report through presentations by Task Group members and demonstrate how this work aligns with that of Task Group 105, which focuses on integration into the radiological protection system, including the practical use of Derived Consideration Reference Levels (DCRLs). The workshop will also present some perspectives from Task Group 125 on the role of ecosystem services in environmental radiological protection. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a moderated Q&A session.
Participants who attend at least 50% of the workshop will receive a Certificate of Attendance via email within 48 hours of the event.
Publication Abstract
This publication broadens the Reference Animals and Plants (RAP) and Derived Consideration Reference Levels (DCRL) approach outlined in Publication 108 (ICRP, 2008). It introduces a methodology for establishing additional DCRLs at higher taxonomic levels to complement the existing DCRLs which are defined at the family level. A transparent, data-driven approach for assessing the effects of ionising radiation on non-human species in their natural environment is described. By integrating comprehensive radiation effects data, documented models, and considering the underlying assumptions, the methodology enhances transparency, reproducibility, and improves the ability of assessors to address complex environmental impact assessments.
The broadened RAP approach extends beyond the twelve RAP families defined in Publication 108 by incorporating higher taxonomic levels such as class, phylum, and broad non-human species groups (vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants). This expansion improves the representativeness and applicability of the RAP approach in radiological environmental impact assessments. The approach applies two statistical models: the Acute-to-Chronic Transformation of Radiation Effects (ACTR) model, which extrapolates chronic effects from acute data, and the Endpoint Sensitivity Distribution (ESD) model, which synthesises chronic and acute effects data across taxonomic groups. The additional DCRLs are derived using the 5th percentile of the ESD, with a multi-criteria Extrapolation Factor (EF) applied to establish the lower boundary, and accounting for data gaps and uncertainties.
As simple guidance, the DCRLs (family) from Publication 108 (ICRP, 2008) are the benchmarks recommended for environmental impact assessments. The additional DCRLs introduced in this publication provide complementary reference points, particularly in cases where dose rates approach or exceed DCRLFamily values. This broadened approach where benchmarks can be used in conjunction, is especially relevant for complex impact assessments, such as evaluations of large facilities, post-accident scenarios, and protected ecosystems. It also allows flexibility in applying different ESD percentiles to identify an acceptable level of protection in consultation with stakeholders or to incorporate site-specific data for refined assessments.
Irrespective of the DCRLs used, the guidance from Publication 124 (ICRP, 2014) applies: the lower boundary of the relevant DCRL should be applied in planned exposure situations, while in existing exposure scenarios or post-accident long-term assessments, DCRLs help guide optimisation of radiological protection of non-human species. Additionally, in emergencies, at the time where the focus shifts to environmental recovery, the acute ESD models for classes or phyla, or broad species groups can support stakeholder discussions providing retrospective information on the likely ecological consequences of radiation exposure.
By broadening the RAP approach, this publication strengthens the scientific basis for environmental radiological protection, facilitates stakeholder engagement, and contributes to support decision-making in environmental impact assessments. The additional DCRLs at higher taxonomic levels introduced in this publication provide an important complement in complex cases as it offers the possibility of a more refined assessment and a transparent evaluation of the level of confidence. The methodology and underpinning data enable assessors to adapt their assessments to specific contexts, make informed judgments, and reduce uncertainties in evaluating radiation impact or risk to non-human species. Further guidance on the application of the DCRLs within the system of radiological protection will be provided as Part 2 in this series of publications “Considering the Environment When Applying the System of Radiological Protection Part 2: Integration within the system, including practical use of Derived Consideration Reference Levels”.
PROGRAMME
12:00
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Welcome & Opening RemarksThierry Schneider (ICRP & CEPN, France) and Dominique Laurier (ICRP & ASNR, France) |
12:05
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Why This Report Matters NowCarl-Magnus Larsson (ICRP External Invited Reviewer & DSA, Norway) |
12:15
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How the New Derived Consideration Reference Levels Were Derived; Why and How They Are UsefulJacqueline Garnier-Laplace (ICRP & ASNR, France) |
12:35
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How the New DCRLs Compare with Other DataChristelle Adam-Guillermin (ICRP & ASNR, France) |
12:55
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Using the DCRLs in PracticeDavid Copplestone (ICRP & University of Stirling, UK) |
13:15
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Forward-Looking Insights into Environmental Radiological ProtectionNicole Martinez (ICRP & Clemson University, USA) |
13:25
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Panel Discussion and Q&AModerated by Carl-Magnus Larsson
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