Radiation, risk perception and raw material exploration: science communication and social license

Abstract

Within our modern world, high-tech communications and low carbon energy and transport are growing the need for raw materials. Alkaline rocks and carbonatites are key sources for such raw materials. However, most alkaline rock and carbonatite-related ore deposits contain hundreds of parts per million thorium and smaller amounts of uranium. Therefore, radiation can be a key hazard at exploration and mine sites. Our study of publically available data on radiation levels at exploration projects and mines, compared with records of protests associated with these sites, shows that: - Radiation levels in ore deposits, waste materials and by-products from mines vary considerably between different sites. - Protests about exploration projects and mines are associated with a wide range of concerns, sometimes, but not always, including radiation. - In some cases high levels of radiation-related concern are found at sites with lower radiation levels. - Insufficient trust and community engagement are repeatedly associated with protests associated with exploration and mine sites. Perception of radiation risk is important and needs to be addressed at all exploration projects in alkaline rocks and carbonatites. Background levels of radiation and concentrations of uranium and thorium in ore should be published as early as possible in exploration, even if these levels are low. No information is likely to lead to assumption of a problem. More broadly, best practices for good community – company relations and communication echo the best practice lessons learned in volcanic and other risk management scenarios and reflect the wider issues about science engagement and communication. Trust development, community engagement and transparency are essential in all cases and are key to effective relationships between communities and specialists working together in many circumstances. Acknowledgement: This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement no. 689909).