Less radiation than in nature: Сrops can once again be grown on Chornobyl lands
Illustrative photo: the new study showed promising results (Getty Images)
For the first time since the 1986 disaster, some lands around Chornobyl have been recognized as safe for agriculture. A new study showed that radiation levels in certain areas do not exceed national standards, according to the Independent.
After the disaster, vast territories around the station were deemed hazardous for life and agricultural production. The Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, covering 4,200 square kilometers, remains uninhabited and has turned into one of Europe's largest nature reserves.
However, as the outlet notes, over the years, radiation levels in the region have significantly decreased due to the decay of radionuclides and erosion of the topsoil. At the same time, the zoning boundaries have not been reviewed since 1991.
New Study on the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone
A new study published in the Journal of Environmental Radioactivity has shown promising results. It covered approximately 100 hectares in the Zhytomyr region.
The scientists analyzed soil samples, external gamma radiation levels, and also predicted the accumulation of radioactive elements in crops such as potatoes, grains, corn, and sunflowers.
It turned out that the radiation dose that agricultural workers could receive is significantly lower than Ukraine's national safety standard and even lower than natural background radiation levels in many regions of the world.
Why the research findings are important
The findings of the study suggest that, with proper monitoring and adherence to Ukrainian food safety standards, most crops can be safely grown on previously prohibited areas.
"Since 1986, there has been a lot of misinformation about radiation risks from Chornobyl, which has negatively impacted on people still living in abandoned areas. This research is important for communities affected by the Chornobyl disaster," said the study's lead researcher, Jim Smith, from the University of Portsmouth.
According to Smith, the scientific approach applied in the study can be adapted for other radioactive-contaminated areas worldwide.
Animals are returning to Chornobyl
As we mentioned earlier, nature is returning to Chornobyl. The number of hoofed animals is increasing, their ranges are expanding, and animals are gradually restoring the ecosystem balance disrupted by decades of isolation.
There has been a recorded increase in the population of Przewalski's horses and red deer. This year’s discovery is a herd of 23 deer, which has become a record for the area.
