Transport data collection in Brazil: reliable information to satisfy public concern

The work carried out by the Waste Management Coordination of the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission is described, in collecting data related to the transport of radioactive materials. The spread of the democratic process and the improvement in communication has led to an increasing interest in matters like sustainable development, waste recycling and environmental protection. To satisfy the increasing demand, the competent authority must be able to provide information to a public which includes laymen, congress members, lawyers and environmentalists. In this context, organised data play an important role in public understanding. In addition, the IAEA survey in requesting member states to determine transport data needs and availability created an opportunity to initiate data collection. A pilot plan, developed to collect data on transport movements and events related to radioactive materials, produced valuable information. Future actions can now be envisaged taking into account the experience obtained. (author)