Pre-operational environmental survey for two uranium mine sites in Northern Italy

Both uranium mine sites considered are located in Northern Italy in mountain districts at about 1000 metres above sea level. Mining, milling and mill tailings disposal operations are yet to commence. The environment of the sites has been studied in detail by various expert groups: ENEA (formerly CNEN) and INN (National Institute for Nutrition). They have jointly carried out comprehensive studies including: (i) geological characterization of ore bodies and sites; (ii) geochemical survey of the circulation of both stable and radioactive elements of major concern through natural waters; (iii) survey of the radioactive content and of 222Rn emanation rate of soils and rocks; (iv) survey of external gamma radiation exposure and internal exposure due to 222Rn and its airborne daughters of the population in the area around the mine and mill sites; (v) a socio-economic survey of locally produced foodstuffs, agricultural and dairy activities, and dietary habits of the various population groups. In summary the pre-operational environmental studies indicate that: (i) for stable elements (Zn, Cu, Cd and Pb) the levels are very similar to those normally encountered in the region, in contrast with the geochemical enrichments of the ore bodies; (ii) for radioactive elements (210Pb, 210Po, 222Rn, 226Ra, U nat.) the levels are higher than normal and similar to those encountered in other high background areas of Italy. Concerning the disposal of uranium mill tailings, further co-ordinated environmental and technological studies are required to select sites suited to ensure reliable management and disposal, both in the short and long term. The results of the studies are discussed on the basis of available guidelines for environmental impact assessments, and prove to be adequate with respect to a preliminary assessment of environmental impact for the planned mining and milling activities