Technical Meeting on Conceptual Site Models in the Management of Radioactively Contaminated Land

The IAEA will hold a virtual Technical Meeting on Conceptual Site Models in the Management of Radioactively Contaminated Land from 19 to 23 August 2024.

Only virtual attendance is possible.

Contaminated sites and areas requiring environmental improvement exist across the world. Sites requiring remediation, and possibly long-term control, include mining and processing sites, early nuclear research facilities, power plants and waste sites, and areas with elevated naturally occurring radioactive materials.

The basis of characterization, assessment, remediation and monitoring is the conceptual site model (also known as a CSM). A conceptual site model represents the characteristics of a site and shows the possible relationships (pathways) between the contaminant sources and receptors. It is developed at the outset of any process to understand the potential impacts of contaminants on people and/or the environment and is continually updated throughout activities to evaluate and remediate the site.

Whilst the use of a conceptual site model is widespread in industries to address conventional contaminated land, there appears to be limited use to address radioactively contaminated land or sites with elevated naturally occurring radioactive materials. Therefore, the IAEA seeks to promote good practices, facilitate information sharing, and identify gaps and barriers in the use of the conceptual site model.

To ensure a successful meeting, participants are strongly encouraged to propose presentations for inclusion at the meeting. Topics may include:

• Case Studies: Analysing real-world examples where conceptual site models have been successfully employed for the management or remediation of contaminated land.
•  Integration of multiple data sources: Exploring how various data sources such as geophysical surveys, soil sampling, and historical records are integrated into conceptual site models to enhance accuracy and reliability.
• Stakeholder engagement and communication: The use of conceptual site models as tools to communicating complex technical information in a clear and accessible manner and facilitate effectively work with interested parties.
•  Use of software tools: The development of software tools to create and manage the conceptual site model throughout the lifetime of a project.
• Learning from related industries: The use of conceptual models in technical disciplines related to the management of contaminants in the environment e.g. exposure modelling for radon, development of environmental baselines prior the construction of new facilities, etc.

Further information can be found in the Information Sheet.