Ionizing Radiation in our Environment

Radiation has always been a natural part of our environment. Natural radioactive sources in the soil, water and air contribute to our exposure to ionizing radiation, as well as man-made sources resulting from mining and use of naturally radioactive materials in power generation, nuclear medicine, consumer products, military and industrial applications.

Where does radiation exposure come from?

Sources and distribution of average radiation exposure to the world population

In this section you find information on our work for protecting people and the environment from harmful and avoidable exposure to radiation:

Radon

Cosmic Radiation

Depleted Uranium

Related WHO Environmental Sites

World Radiography Day - Radiographers Care about YOUR Protection
More information [pdf 300kb]

WHO calls for tighter standards on indoor radon
More information

WHO Gobal Initiative on Radiation Safety in Health Care Settings
More information

International Radon Project
More information

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
More information

Fact Sheets
More information

Nuclear and radiological terrorism
More information

Depleted Uranium (DU)
Full text

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