Category: IAEA

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Nuclear Science Enhances Malawi’s Food Safety and Export Systems

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

Appreciated internationally for its rich, smooth and sweet flavour, tea is one of Malawi’s top exports. Ensuring its competitiveness requires rigorous safety-related testing. 

Milk, which in Malawi is predominantly produced by small-scale farmers, is vulnerable to microbiological and chemical hazards, posing health risks to consumers. 

The MBS laboratory has begun applying techniques such as radioreceptor assays using carbon-14 and tritium tracers to rapidly and cost-effectively detect residues of chemicals used in animal production that may be present in milk and other foods. The lab now routinely tests milk for veterinary drug residues, supporting both consumer safety and improved livestock management by advising producers on appropriate agrochemical use in food production.

The laboratory is also using gamma spectrometry to precisely measure trace levels of radionuclides in food and environmental samples. These nuclear and other complementary techniques are now integrated into Malawi’s routine food certification processes, helping ensure that food products entering and leaving the country can comply with safety standards and protect public health.

“We are grateful for the support provided, which has been transformative, closing critical gaps in Malawi’s ability to monitor both radiological and chemical hazards in food and to better safeguard local and international consumers,” said Stephen Massah Kuyeli, MBS Director of Testing Services. 

“The progress achieved in Malawi reflects our shared commitment to strengthening national capabilities, not simply solving immediate challenges,” said Dongxin Feng, Director of the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre. “Through training, technical analytical resources and knowledge transfer, we support countries in building laboratories that can independently monitor food products to ensure that food safety regulations are met and international standards are upheld.”

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Tritium Level Far Below Japan’s Operational Limit in 19th Batch of ALPS Treated Water, IAEA Confirms

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

The tritium concentration of the 19th batch of Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS)‑treated water, which the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) began discharging today from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (FDNPS), is far below Japan’s operational limit and consistent with international safety standards, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed today. 

As part of its ongoing safety assessment, the IAEA conducted independent sampling of the latest batch prior to its release via a one‑kilometre tunnel into the ocean. On‑site analysis confirmed that the tritium concentration is far below Japan’s operational limit of 1,500 becquerels per litre and in line with international safety standards. 

Japan began releasing ALPS‑treated water in batches in August 2023, and since then roughly 140,500 cubic meters have been discharged. The IAEA has confirmed that the tritium levels in all first 18 batches were far below the operational limits set by Japan.

Background

In its comprehensive report issued in July 2023, the IAEA concluded that Japan’s approach to the discharge of ALPS‑treated water is consistent with relevant international safety standards and that the release, as planned and assessed, would have a negligible radiological impact on people and the environment. The IAEA continues to maintain a presence at the site and to carry out ongoing monitoring and verification activities throughout the discharge process. 

Further information, including results of independent sampling and analysis, as well as timelines and technical reports, is available on the IAEA website.

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How Nuclear Science Helps Tackle Food Waste

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

Food waste is a growing global challenge. Every year, about 1 billion tonnes of edible food, nearly one-fifth of what reaches consumers, is wasted. This has significant impacts on both people and the environment.

Monika Shifotoka, IAEA Office of Public Information and Communication

Low‑quality and damaged mandarins removed during export fruit screening at a packing house in Opuzen, Croatia. (Photo: R. Cardoso/IAEA)

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), 13.2 per cent of food is lost before it reaches retail, representing an estimated USD 400 billion in losses. A further 19 per cent is wasted at retail and consumer levels. This represents an enormous waste of resources and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, environmental pollution and biodiversity loss.

The IAEA through the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, supports countries with science-based solutions to reduce food loss and waste.

Here are five ways nuclear science is helping tackle food waste and support a zero‑waste future:

1. Extending Shelf Life Through Food Irradiation

Food irradiation is an innovative, safe and non-invasive technique that uses radiation such as X-rays, gamma rays or electron beam sources to keep food fresh and safe for longer.

It works by reducing microorganisms and pests that cause spoilage, significantly extending the shelf life of food products. For example, irradiation can help fresh strawberries stored in a refrigerator last up to seven days longer.

By extending the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, grains and spices, this technique reduces losses during storage and transport and helps ensure that more food reaches consumers instead of being discarded.

2. Strengthening Food Safety with Nuclear-Based Techniques

Food contaminated with pathogens or toxins, identified through laboratory testing within market or border controls, is often withdrawn or rejected for import and then it is discarded. Nuclear and nuclear‑derived methods such as X ray fluorescence, neutron activation, stable isotope  based techniques  and advanced laboratory diagnostics help countries detect contaminants quickly and accurately.

These techniques strengthen national food safety systems, reduce unnecessary disposal of food and prevent food that is safe from being discarded due to uncertainty.

Stable isotopes based techniques applied to measure pesticides residues in tomatoes sample (Photo: IAEA)

3. Supporting Climate-Resilient Farming to Reduce Losses

Nuclear techniques can be used to accelerate the natural process of plant breeding, enabling the development of crop varieties that are more resilient to climate stress, pests and diseases. 

The IAEA, through the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre supports mutation breeding and associated biotechnologies to develop crops that are more resistant to disease, more tolerant to climate stress (drought, salinity) and higher yielding. This means fewer crops are lost in the field. 

The IAEA, through the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture supported Mauritian scientists in developing a black‑rot‑resistant cauliflower variety using radiation‑induced plant breeding to reduce pesticide use and strengthen food security in Mauritius.  (Photo: FAREI).

4. Improving Pest Control with the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT)

Pests destroy millions of tonnes of crops annually. The sterile insect technique is a method that uses ionizing radiation to sterilize large numbers of insects reared in mass-rearing facilities, which are then released over infested areas to mate with the wild pest population. As these sterilized insects are incapable of producing any offspring, the insect population declines over time.  

The SIT has helped countries such as the Dominican Republic eradicate insect pest  reduce major agricultural pests, protecting crops and supporting access to export markets. 

Apple with Mediterranean fruit fly larvae causing the total loss of the commercial value of the commodity (Photo: R. Cardoso-Pereira/FAO-IAEA)

5. Facilitating Safe and Efficient Trade

Food often spoils while waiting for inspection and results for conformity with regulations and guidelines.

Nuclear and isotopic techniques help verify food authenticity, detect adulteration, and verify the labelling information to ensure compliance with international standards. Faster, trusted certification means fewer delays and less food wasted due to spoilage in transit.

The IAEA and FAO assist countries in combating food fraud, detecting harmful contaminants and ensuring the authenticity and quality of food products.

Through the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre, both organizations continue to support food safety and quality and forge partnerships under the Atoms4Food initiative, which aims to leverage innovative nuclear techniques to enhance agricultural productivity, reduce food losses and waste, ensure food security and improve nutrition.

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IAEA Mission Recognizes Belgium’s Continued Commitment to Strengthen Nuclear and Radiation Safety

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

IAEA experts, staff and counterparts during the Integrated Regulatory Review Service follow-up mission in Belgium. (Photo: FANC)

An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts has concluded a five-day review of Belgium’s regulatory framework for nuclear and radiation safety, as well as the interface between safety and nuclear security.

The Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) follow-up mission, conducted at Belgium’s request from 23 to 27 March, reviewed the country’s progress in addressing the recommendations and suggestions made by the initial IRRS mission in 2023. The mission was hosted by the Federal Agency for Nuclear Control (FANC) and Bel V, the Technical Safety Organisation of the Belgian nuclear safety authority and subsidiary of FANC, that together form Belgium’s regulatory body. 

Using IAEA safety standards and international good practices, IRRS missions are designed to strengthen the effectiveness of the national regulatory infrastructure while recognizing the responsibility of each country for nuclear and radiation safety.

Overall, the IRRS team concluded that staff from the regulatory body showed a strong commitment and professionalism in carrying out their mandate to ensure nuclear and radiation safety in Belgium. The Government and the regulatory body addressed the recommendations and suggestions made by the 2023 mission in a systematic manner and made significant improvements since the initial mission. Of the 17 recommendations and 15 suggestions issued in 2023, the team found that 8 recommendations and 14 suggestions have now been successfully addressed and closed.

Belgium currently operates two nuclear power reactors at two nuclear sites, Doel and Tihange, that provide 34% of the country’s electricity production. Five reactors are in permanent shutdown. In 2003, the Government had decided to phase out nuclear power by 2025. However, this phase-out law was abrogated in 2025, allowing the operation extension until 2035 of Doel 4 and Tihange 3, and opening the path to possible new build and further lifetime extension. Other nuclear installations include research reactors, a radioactive waste treatment facility and an isotope production facility. In addition, medical and industrial applications of radioactive sources are widely used. 

The IRRS team, comprising six international experts from Canada, Hungary, Morocco, Portugal, South Africa and the United Kingdom, as well as three IAEA staff members, conducted interviews and discussions with FANC and Bel V, and reviewed documents and other related information. 

The IRRS team noted achievements in FANC’s human resource plan and competence management, including a systematic approach to training for all staff.

The IRRS team identified the following areas of good performance:

  • To demonstrate the value of safety culture, FANC launched a project delivering small but effective adjustments focusing on leadership behaviour, knowledge management and internal cooperation and dialogue that visibly improved staff’s daily work and showed how safety culture enhancements lead to better organizational performance;
  • FANC ensures competent, formally appointed inspectors through structured training and a transparent system for qualification and status tracking, including publication in the Belgian official gazette, making the list of credited inspectors official and available to all citizens; and
  • FANC collaborated with the Belgian ministry for employment to address the initial mission’s findings on occupational safety. FANC’s efforts secured ministerial support and led to planned coordinated actions to ensure the protection of pregnant and breastfeeding workers.

“Belgium’s regulatory body has made notable and well‑structured progress since the previous IRRS mission, demonstrating professionalism, transparency and a clear dedication to safety,” said IRRS team leader Ramzi Jammal, Executive Vice President and Chief Regulatory Operations Officer of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. “The IRRS team welcomed the constructive engagement from all counterparts and recognizes the substantial efforts undertaken to address the earlier recommendations.”

“This follow-up IRRS mission came at a pivotal moment for Belgium’s nuclear sector,” said Pascale Absil, Director-General of FANC. “As our national policy evolves, the expectations placed on the regulatory system also grow. We are adapting proactively to these new realities, strengthening our processes and capabilities to ensure that nuclear safety, as well as the protection of the public and the environment remain at the core of our work. The opportunity to exchange with colleagues from other regulatory authorities during this mission has been extremely valuable — their experience and good practices help us refine our own approach and reinforce our continuous improvement efforts.” 

The final mission report will be provided to the Government in about three months.

IAEA Safety Standards

The IAEA Safety Standards provide a robust framework of fundamental principles, requirements and guidance to ensure safety. They reflect an international consensus and serve as a global reference for protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.

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Update 345 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) lost connection to its main off-site power line on Tuesday, leaving it reliant on a single backup power line, as IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi initiated discussions with the Russian Federation and Ukraine to secure a local ceasefire for urgent repairs.

The ZNPP’s Dniprovska 750 kV power line was disconnected at 11:55 on Tuesday following reports of damage to the line. The ZNPP and Ukrainian grid dispatcher are communicating with the IAEA regarding plans to carry out repairs. The IAEA team at the plant continues to closely monitor the situation.

Although the timing for the necessary repairs remains uncertain, Director General Grossi confirmed that the IAEA has proposed a ceasefire window to both parties, allowing for safe assessment and restoration of the damaged infrastructure. 

The IAEA has previously brokered five temporary ceasefire arrangements, which enabled six separate repairs to power lines connected to the ZNPP.

The ZNPP is still connected to off-site power via its sole backup power line – the 330kV Ferosplavna-1 line, reconnected on 5 March, following repairs carried out under the protection of the fifth local ceasefire negotiated by the IAEA. 

Elsewhere in Ukraine, the IAEA team at the Khmelnitsky Nuclear Power Plant reported that they had to shelter for several hours on Tuesday afternoon.

Also this week, as part of the IAEA’s ongoing comprehensive programme of assistance to Ukraine in nuclear safety and security, one gas chromatograph with high resolution magnetic spectrometry was delivered to the State Scientific Research Institute of Laboratory Diagnostics and Veterinary and Sanitary Expertise in Kyiv. A second gas chromatograph and a liquid chromatograph, both with double mass spectrometric detectors, were also delivered to the Lviv Regional State Laboratory of State Service of Ukraine on Food Safety and Consumer Protection. The deliveries were made possible with funds from Japan. 

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IAEA Releases Updated Regulations for Safe Transport of Radioactive Material

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

Nearly 300 proposals for changes to the 2018 edition were received from member countries worldwide and were reviewed by an international panel of experts before the revised edition was approved by the IAEA for publication. 

“This collaborative process is fundamental, ensuring that the regulations reflect the collective expertise and broad international consensus of the global transport community,” said Mansoux.

The revised regulations reflect current scientific knowledge and operational experience while providing clear and practical requirements for safe transport. 

Among the key changes are revised A1 and A2 values, which determine packaging regulations of radioactive material such as portable moisture density gauges with sealed sources of Caesium-137 and Americium-241 and radiopharmaceuticals that are used in diagnostic and therapeutic applications such as Technetium-99m and Iodine-131. 

These updates also reflect the latest radiological data, dose coefficients, and modelling techniques. Additional enhancements include deadlines for phasing out packages designed under outdated standards and new provisions that address ageing effects in the design of packages for nuclear and radioactive material. These measures strengthen existing provisions for package durability, thereby ensuring long-term safety.

The revised safety regulations will be incorporated into international modal regulations for maritime transport and transport by air, and into regional modal regulations, such as those that apply to transport by road, rail and inland waterways. Countries also incorporate these regulations into their national regulations, creating a strong, harmonized global framework for transport safety. 

“Türkiye’s legislation on the safe transport of radioactive material aligns directly with IAEA Transport Regulations. This ensures a robust regulatory framework that minimizes radiation risks, enables seamless cross border shipments including fresh fuel delivery to Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant and exports of medical radioisotopes,” said Ibrahim Halil Dere, Vice President of Türkiye’s Nuclear Regulatory Authority. “The latest regulations will further boost clarity, harmonization, and the safe global movement of radioactive material.”

The IAEA supports member countries in applying the transport safety regulations through online and instructor-led training, advisory services and expert missions. This helps establish clear transport protocols that support competent authorities to build sustainable capacity, which helps to ensure that radioactive material is transported under an internationally aligned safety system. 

The IAEA also publishes transport security guidance, which helps to protect against malicious acts during transport. The IAEA safety standards on transport and the nuclear security guidance enable countries to implement a coherent approach to transport oversight for the protection of people and the environment against harmful effects of ionizing radiation. 

For more information on the conference, see here IAEA event page. 

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How do we keep radioactive material safe and secure during transport?

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

Every year, millions of shipments of nuclear and radioactive material move across the globe — by sea, rail, road, and air. How are they protected? 

Used in medicine, research, and clean energy, these materials are essential — and their safe and secure transport is a global priority. (Footage: IAEA/NTS)

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Nuclear Scientists Return to Lake Tanganyika 50 Years After First Scientific Mission

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

Tareq Aldakheelallah, IAEA Department of Technical Cooperation

Lake Tanganika is shared by Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania and Zambia. (Photo: Adobe Stock)

Along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, rising waters are disrupting economic activity and daily life. The lake is shared by Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania and Zambia. During the past five years, its water levels have increased by more than a metre. Beaches have closed and some areas with lakeside housing and cabins are now fully submerged and have been evacuated. Roads and hotels along the shoreline have also been affected.

Scientists in Burundi Working with IAEA

While these impacts are visible on land, the processes beneath the surface are less clear. With support  from the IAEA’s technical cooperation programme, scientists from Burundi are working with IAEA experts to better understand changes in the lake’s water conditions using isotope hydrology. 

This effort echoes a pioneering 1973 expedition, when Harmon Craig and colleagues from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), worked with national institutions including the Burundi Fisheries Department, first studied the lake’s chemistry and circulation. More than 50 years later, nuclear scientists have returned to help explain how the lake is changing.

Rising water levels have affected roads along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, impacting transport and local communities.  (Photo: IAEA)

Lake Tanganyika is the longest freshwater lake on Earth and the second largest lake in the world by volume and depth. It is shared by Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania and Zambia and supports fisheries, agriculture, transport and tourism across the region.

“Lake Tanganyika is not only important for Burundi. It is shared with three other countries. Its water management is essential, as it has long been a source of fish, drinking water and recreation for communities along its shores,” said Gilbert Nijimbere, Professor at the University of Burundi.

What is Isotope Hydrology?

Isotope hydrology is a nuclear technique that uncovers how water moves through the land, ocean and atmosphere. This technique provides data to facilitate informed decision making to address water management challenges.

Read more: What is Isotope Hydrology? 

The IAEA-supported mission in February this year brought together two IAEA experts, two international specialists and two scientists from the University of Burundi. Over the course of the expedition, the team collected around 160 water samples from different lake depths, as well as from nearby rivers and groundwater sources.

Experts in Burundi are using isotope-based tracing techniques to better understand how water circulates within Lake Tanganyika, how its layers interact and how conditions may be changing over time. Some of these methods also help determine how long deep waters have remained isolated from the surface. 

The measurements from the landmark 1973 scientific expedition provide an important scientific baseline for understanding how the lake has changed over the past half century.

“It’s very exciting to have the opportunity to reapply the isotopic techniques used in 1973 to examine how conditions in the lake may have changed over time,” said Bradley McGuire, an isotope hydrologist joining the 2026 mission from the IAEA. 

IAEA experts and scientists from the University of Burundi collect water samples from Lake Tanganyika as part of efforts to understand changes in the lake’s conditions. (Photo: IAEA)

Deepest Waters of Lake Tanganyika 2000 Years Old

In 1973, Craig’s team collected hundreds of water samples from different depths and locations across the northern part of the lake. Their research found that Lake Tanganyika is organized in distinct layers.

The upper layers of the lake, influenced by wind and seasonal changes, were observed to mix down to a depth of roughly 100 metres, providing a connection to the atmosphere and introducing oxygen which supports larger biological life. Below this mixing zone, however, deeper layers of the lake appeared isolated. Oxygen was absent and water was believed to remain undisturbed for long periods of time.

In fact, scientists estimated that some of the deepest water was much older than the lake’s surface water, mirroring the age of deep ocean water around 2000 years, and effectively preserving a record of past environmental and climatic conditions. This layered structure means Lake Tanganyika behaves more like a miniature ocean than a typical lake.

Scientists have compared Lake Tanganyika to a miniature ocean, as its waters are thousands of years old. (Photo: IAEA). 

New Measurements Reveal Depths of Oxygenated Waters Have Decreased

Preliminary observations indicate that the depth of oxygenated waters has decreased significantly compared with measurements taken in 1973. At that time oxygen extended to about 100 metres, while new measurements suggest that oxygen now reaches only around 80 metres, indicating potential changes in mixing processes and ecological conditions within the lake. 

Researchers also observed that the water area between 50 metres and 80 metres appears to be a zone of oxygen stress, where oxygen levels are almost half of the oxygenated zone .

The expedition required careful coordination, including alignment with historic sampling locations, verifying equipment, and ensuring consistency with earlier measurements. Despite these challenges, the team was able to gather enough samples for detailed laboratory analysis.

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IAEA Hosts Conference on the Safe and Secure Transport of Nuclear and Radioactive Material

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

Emma Midgley, Office of Public Information and Communiction

The conference will provide an international forum to address all aspects related to safety and security during transport, from regulatory and policy issues to the use of drones and artificial intelligence. (Photo: D. Calma/IAEA).

The IAEA is hosting an international conference this week focused on strengthening the safe and secure transport of nuclear and other radioactive material. Around 20 million global shipments of radioactive material are made every year to support peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology.  

Read more: How is Nuclear Material Transported Safely and Securely?

Bringing together experts from governments, regulators, technical support organizations, industry and research institutions, the event will be held from 23 to 27 March. The conference will provide an international forum to address all aspects related to safety and security during transport, from regulatory and policy issues to the use of drones and artificial intelligence. It will also explore the transport of small modular reactors (SMRs) and floating nuclear power plants (FNPPs).  

Read more: What are small modular reactors (SMRs)?

Ditebogo Kgomo, Conference Co-President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Nuclear Regulator in South Africa, delivers opening remarks. (Photo: D. Calma/IAEA)

“The safe transport of nuclear and radioactive materials is necessary for global safety, public confidence and the responsible use of nuclear technologies,” said Ditebogo Kgomo, Conference Co-President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Nuclear Regulator in South Africa. 

“As these materials move across borders and through complex logistical networks, international collaboration and shared expertise become indispensable. The conference participants will gain valuable insights into emerging challenges, evolving regulatory frameworks, innovative solutions that enhance both safety and security associated with transport of nuclear and radioactive materials. We look forward to engaging the global community to ensure that transport of these vital materials remains safe, secure, and resilient.”

 “Transport security is not merely a logistical concern but it is a foundation of sustainable nuclear development and non-proliferation,” said Pennapa Kanchana, Conference Co-President and Inspector General at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Thailand. 

“With the expanding use of radioactive materials and the emergence of technologies like SMRs, the way nuclear and radioactive materials move across borders is transforming, and the international community must rise to the challenge and ensure that our frameworks are as forward-looking as the innovations. This conference provides a vital platform to align policies, elevate standards, strengthen cooperation and build the trust necessary to secure materials in transit.” 

The conference will feature plenary discussions, panel sessions, a scenario based policy discussion and poster presentations, enabling member countries to exchange practical experience on transport safety, security including regulation, emergency preparedness and technological innovation.

The opening plenary session will give an overview of the global landscape for the safe and secure transport of nuclear and other radioactive material. (Photo: D. Calma/IAEA)

The Global Landscape of Transport Safety and Security

The opening plenary will give an overview of the global landscape for the safe and secure transport of nuclear and other radioactive material, outlining current trends, cross‑border considerations and areas where there is potential for further harmonization.

Throughout the week, panel sessions will explore specialized themes, including:

  • Transport of nuclear and other radioactive material in times of crisis: examining the continuity of operations and emergency decision making under challenging conditions. 
  • Regulatory challenges associated with the transport of SMRs and FNPPs.
  • Sustainable supply chain for radiopharmaceuticals: ensuring that patients have reliable access to radiopharmaceuticals, essential for life‑saving diagnostics and therapies.
  • Public communication: discussing approaches for improving awareness and trust related to the movement of nuclear and other radioactive material. 

Safety by Package Design

A major focus of the conference is safety by package design, addressed through several technical sessions examining innovations in shielding and containment as well as practical certification processes for transport packages. Six dedicated sessions allow experts to compare design approaches, testing methodologies and lessons learned from real world applications.

Security in Support of Advanced and Innovative Technologies

Given the critical importance of security in the successful delivery of both existing nuclear and other radioactive material transports, a number of security focused technical sessions are planned to support the international interest shown in the employment of new technologies such as SMRs and FNPPs.

Other technical sessions consider:

  • Transport security practices and challenges: covering physical protection, vulnerability assessment and coordination among national competent authorities. 
  • Computer security for transport systems: discussing computer security threats, infrastructure protection and digital resilience across the transport chain. 
  • Advanced fuel cycle transport: focusing on innovations in packaging and shipment for new fuel types and advanced reactor technologies. 

The agenda also highlights the potential role of battery and hydrogen powered vehicles in radioactive material transport, examining associated safety and security implications. 

A specialized panel will explore the safe and secure transport of disused radioactive sources. 

Strengthening Preparedness and Response

Preparedness and response in case of incidents during transport will be discussed, with two sessions dedicated to scenario based planning and practical approaches for managing incidents. 

Read more: What are Radioactive Sources?

International Cooperation and Regulatory Frameworks

Several sessions will address the international frameworks governing the transport of nuclear and other radioactive material, including legal instruments, safety standards, and security instruments. Discussions cover:

Sessions on national and international shipments, sea transport and civil liability considerations will provide additional space for countries to exchange on national practices and identify areas where common approaches could facilitate smoother transport operations. 

Human Capacity Building and Safety–Security Culture

Recognizing the critical role of well trained personnel, the conference offers discussions on human resource development, safety–security culture and approaches to building national competence in regulatory and operational roles. 

Side events, a poster session and a technical exhibition complement the main programme, showcasing ongoing research, new tools and countries’ experiences.

The conference is supported by funding from Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

Follow the conference on social media with the hashtag #SafeSecureTransport.

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IAEA Database: About 55% of Nuclear and Other Radioactive Material Thefts Since 1993 Occurred During Transport

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

More than half of all thefts of nuclear and other radioactive material reported to the Incident and Trafficking Database (ITDB) since 1993 occurred during authorized transport, with the share rising to nearly 70% in the past decade. The new data released today by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) underlines the need for continued vigilance in transport security.

Of the 4626 reported incidents in the ITDB from 1993 to 2025, 730 were thefts of radioactive material, including attempted thefts. Almost 55% of those thefts occurred during transport, and in more than 59% of those transport-related cases – about 400 incidents – the stolen radioactive material has not been recovered.

“Nuclear and other radioactive material remains vulnerable to security threats during transport, and data from the ITDB underscores the continued need to strengthen security,” said Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA’s Division of Nuclear Security. “The IAEA assists countries, upon request, in enhancing their national nuclear security regimes to ensure that such materials are securely managed and fully protected against criminal or intentional unauthorized acts during their transport.” 

The ITDB is the IAEA’s information system on incidents of illicit trafficking and other unauthorized activities and events involving nuclear and other radioactive material out of regulatory control. While most incidents are not linked to trafficking or malicious intent, their occurrence reflects persistent challenges in transport security, regulatory control, disposal practices and detection. 

In 2025, 236 incidents were reported by 34 of the 145 ITDB participating States. This number is higher than in 2024 – 147 incidents – however, the increase is attributed to retrospective reporting. 

All types of nuclear material – including uranium, plutonium and thorium – as well as naturally occurring and artificially produced radioisotopes, and radioactively contaminated material found in scrap metal are included in the ITDB’s scope. Incidents at metal recycling sites involving manufactured goods contaminated with radioactive material continue to be reported to ITDB, indicating an ongoing challenge for some countries in securing disused radioactive sources and detecting their unauthorized disposal. 

The release of the ITDB factsheet coincides with this week’s International Conference on the Safe and Secure Transport of Nuclear and Radioactive Material. The IAEA estimates that millions of shipments of nuclear and other radioactive material are transported annually for peaceful applications in energy, medicine, education, agriculture and industry. 

The conference provides the international transport community with a platform to discuss opportunities, challenges and key enablers for the safe and secure transport of nuclear and other radioactive material. The conference will cover legal and regulatory aspects, transport package design, operations, commercial and supply chain considerations, and innovative technologies that have the potential to impact transport safety and security.

About the ITDB

The ITDB fosters global information exchange about incidents that involve nuclear and other radioactive material falling out of regulatory control because they were lost, stolen, improperly disposed of or otherwise neglected. The database also includes reports about material returning under regulatory control through various means, for example, through the detection of orphan radioactive sources in metal recycling facilities. The ITDB data is voluntarily reported, and only participating States can fully access it, while international organizations, such as the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the World Customs Organization (WCO), have limited access.

The ITDB covers incidents involving nuclear material, radioisotopes and radioactively contaminated material. By reporting lost or stolen material to the ITDB, countries increase the chances of its recovery and reduce the opportunities for it to be used in criminal activities. States can also report scams or hoaxes where the material is purported to be nuclear or otherwise radioactive.

States wishing to join the ITDB need to submit the request to the IAEA through the official channels (i.e. Permanent Mission, Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a national competent authority for nuclear security matters).