Zinc research: an environmental hazard

A suggestion has recently been made (Golden, B., and Golden, M., 1976, Lancet, i. 1133) that since the disposal via the drains of zinc-65 used in medical or biological research could be responsible for the high levels of radiozinc found in shellfish on the Oregon shore, regulations governing such disposal are urgently needed. Such regulations already exist in Britain, the United States and many other countries, and the use of radionuclides for medical research as well as for routine diagnosis and treatment is closely controlled. The administration of the British control procedures is briefly described. The environmental levels of radionuclides resulting from medical procedures are quite low, and medical research using radioactivity is generally done in a responsible manner with minimal environmental detriment. The disposal of radioactive wastes from nuclear power stations and nuclear fuel reprocessing plants presents greater problems, but in Britain these disposals are also closely controlled and monitored. The hazards of environmental pollution with artificial radionuclides are appreciated. (U.K.)