The vital role of radiation protection research in Europe’s future: a PIANOFORTE white paper

Radiation protection is a cornerstone of public health, occupational safety, patient welfare, and environmental stewardship. A strong emphasis on radiation protection is necessary to contribute to the well-being of citizens, to innovation and sustainable growth across Europe, and to meet the challenges by application of new technologies, and emerging threats. While the use of ionising radiation and radioactive substances underpins significant advancements in medicine, nuclear and non-nuclear industry, it also poses risks that must be carefully defined and managed in environmental and health policies. Effective radiation protection knowledge and know-how help balance the benefits and risks of ionising radiation use, empowering European society to harness its potential safely. Neglecting investment in radiation protection research could lead to increased risks, delayed innovation, and risk-disproportionate radiation protection policy and regulation frameworks, hindering Europe’s progress and resilience. This white paper argues for sustained investment in radiation protection research, in the follow-up of the dedicated PIANOFORTE pan-European partnership (2022-2029). In the context of the 10th Framework Programme of Research and Innovation and its related EURATOM’s part, this should be achieved with a funding envelop for radiation protection research of ca. 75 M€ through a PIANOFORTE-like partnership, including actions related to infrastructure and education and training. Such investment forms an essential component of Europe’s strategy for competitiveness, security, and quality of life, including quality of environmental resources and natural capital, notably but not only in the context of the energy transition. Key challenges related to occupational exposure, medical diagnostics and treatments, emergency preparedness and response, exposure to natural sources of radiation and environmental protection underscore the need for comprehensive research to support evidence-based policy decisions, harmonised regulations and safe, sustainable and integrated practices that address protection of both human and environmental health.