Radionuclide and stable elements in flora from Australian arid environments

Abstract

Radiological impact assessments are an important tool for energy and resources industries and government safety regulators to assist in the protection of wildlife diversity, especially native species. Evaluations of radiological impacts to flora in the arid regions of Australia are currently based on international models that use predominately Northern Hemisphere data, with very limited Australian-specific data. This creates a degree of uncertainty in communicating the potential impact of relevant Australian assessments. The project aims to build an improved understanding of radionuclide concentration ratios and radionuclide pathways in arid Australian conditions and are expected to inform assessments in similar environmental conditions elsewhere. The dataset contains measurement of stable elements and radionuclides in soils and plants that were obtained from three regions in South Australia: Flinders Ranges, Pernatty and Roxby Downs region. Access to Australian specific data for use in radiological impact models provide a better understanding and more credible environmental impact assessment process based on more relevant local information.