ERQS, a further logical step in the operational realization of the analogy between chemicals and radionuclides.

Abstract

To effectively strengthen environmental radiological protection, integrated risk management approaches are essential. These can leverage existing frameworks - already developed for other stressors, such as chemical substances - to ensure consistency in regulatory practices. By reviewing existing technical connections between domains, the analysis incorporates insights from chemical environmental protection. This inspired an operational proposal: integrating human and wildlife radiation protection by simply adding an 'R' to the established Environmental Quality Standard (EQS) for chemicals, resulting in the Environmental Radiological Quality Standard (ERQS). The proposed solution introduces a pragmatic, regulatory-oriented approach for the simultaneous management of radiological risks to both people and the environment, mirroring established methods for chemical pollution control. This approach culminates in the concept of an Environmental Radiological Quality Standard (ERQS), inspired by the EQS framework - specifically tailored for freshwater ecosystems - to optimize the use of radiotoxicity data and derive robust environmental protection criteria. The proposed approach generates a synthetic indicator adaptable to various radiological exposure scenarios. Its transparent, iterative methodology facilitates updates. While aligned with prior radiation protection proposals, the ERQS concept expands their scope. Developed with a regulatory focus and in strict parallel to the EQS, it is designed to evolve and improve. It is initially tailored for freshwater ecosystems, though broader adaptation to other ecosystems requires further development. A key future perspective is its potential integration with the broader field of ecosystem services, exploring combined applications for the protection of all living organisms.