Routine radioactive emissions from nuclear installations

The UK stands out as a nation that has conducted a deliberate policy of dilute and disperse for low level radioactive waste. This policy has been founded on the assumptions that there are 'permissible levels' of dose - which means risks of diseases such as cancer, and that the ocean environment can be adequately predicted over the lifetime of these radioactive contaminants. This paper outlines the case history of Sellafield, and summarises the reasons why this policy has been misguided and has led to such international condemnation. (author)