Web tool Biosphere

To estimate potential human radiation exposure, e.g. from a future final repository, we use radioecological models. These models calculate how radioactive substances spread through the environment under various conditions, ultimately reaching humans. A key challenge lies in the considerable uncertainties involved. Unlike the long-lived geological formations surrounding a repository, the surface environment undergoes significant changes over relatively short periods, making long-term predictions difficult. Therefore, instead of fixed values, ranges of variation can be defined for the relevant parameters to estimate the possible range of radiation exposure.

To illustrate this methodology, we have developed an interactive web tool that visualizes the transport of radioactivity within ecosystems. What additional radiation exposure can be expected from a repository and how does this compare to natural background exposure? Which foods and environmental media contain particularly high levels of activity? How do environmental factors, climate, and human behavior influence the results?

Take on the role of a modeler yourself and trace the pathways of radioactive substances through the environment