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UN Sustainable Development Goals & Nuclear Technology

At the core of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and improve the lives and prospects of everyone, everywhere. Nuclear sciences and technology can play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing innovative and efficient solutions. Explore the SDGs and some of the relevant nuclear science and technologies below.

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  • Applications

    • Soil nutrient management using isotopic techniques allows for the precise determination of nutrient uptake and loss in agricultural systems. This provides data for optimising fertiliser application, minimising waste, and improving soil health.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Farmers Using Nuclear Science to Improve Water Use Efficiency

      View case study
    • Mutation breeding using radiation induces genetic variations in crops, creating new varieties with improved traits like disease resistance and higher yields. This allows for the development of crops better suited to challenging environments, enhancing food security.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Nuclear Techniques in Agriculture – Optimising Resources Through Isotopic and Radiation Applications

      View case study
    • Isotopic tracers optimise fertiliser and water usage, improving crop yields and resource efficiency. The use of stable or radioactive isotopes allows for the tracking of nutrient and water uptake within plants and soil. This data provides insights into efficient resource management, leading to enhanced agricultural productivity.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Validating New Agricultural Models Using Nuclear Science

      View case study
    • Nuclear Irradiation techniques enhance food safety by eliminating pathogens and extending shelf life. These processes utilise ionising radiation to damage the DNA of microorganisms, effectively killing them or preventing their reproduction. This reduction in microbial load significantly minimises post-harvest losses and increases the availability of consumable food.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      The Use of Irradiation to Control Fruit Fly Infestations in Fruit Harvests

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Radiation therapy is a medical technique that uses ionising radiation to treat cancer. By precisely targeting and damaging the DNA of cancerous cells, radiation therapy inhibits their growth and division, leading to tumour shrinkage and destruction. It is a cornerstone of cancer treatment, often used in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Ethiopia Strengthens Cancer Control with Enhanced Equipment, Training, and Licensing

      View case study
    • Radiopharmaceuticals are radioactive drugs used for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic interventions in nuclear medicine. By targeting specific organs or tissues, radiopharmaceuticals provide valuable insights into physiological processes and deliver targeted radiation therapy for various diseases.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Radiopharmaceuticals Advance Cancer Treatment in Asia

      View case study
    • Nuclear medicine employs radioactive isotopes for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic interventions. By using radiopharmaceuticals that target specific organs or tissues, nuclear medicine provides valuable insights into physiological processes and delivers targeted radiation therapy for various diseases.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Radiopharmaceuticals Advance Cancer Treatment in Asia

      View case study
    • Radiation sterilisation, using gamma rays or electron beams, is a technique used to sterilise medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and other products by inactivating microorganisms. This method provides a safe, effective, and reliable way to ensure the sterility of products, contributing to improved healthcare and safety.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Medical Equipment Sterilisation in Ghana

      View case study
    • Radiation processing, using electron beams or gamma rays, is employed to disinfect wastewater by inactivating pathogens and reducing harmful microorganisms. This technique provides a safe and effective method for treating wastewater, contributing to improved water quality and public health.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      China Pioneers Medical Wastewater Treatment with Electron Beam Technology

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques and radiation processing are used to study the mechanisms of diseases and develop strategies for prevention. By using radioactive tracers to track biological processes and radiation to sterilise medical equipment and develop vaccines, researchers gain insights into disease pathways and develop effective interventions.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Combating Avian Influenza: Nuclear Technologies at the Forefront

      View case study
    • Nuclear Irradiation techniques enhance food safety by eliminating pathogens and extending shelf life. These processes utilise ionising radiation to damage the DNA of microorganisms, effectively killing them or preventing their reproduction. This reduction in microbial load significantly minimises post-harvest losses and increases the availability of consumable food.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      The Use of Irradiation to Control Fruit Fly Infestations in Fruit Harvests

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to study groundwater flow, water recharge, and contaminant transport, providing valuable information for sustainable water resource management. By introducing radioactive tracers into water bodies and measuring their movement, researchers can assess water availability, identify sources of pollution, and optimise water use.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Farmers Using Nuclear Science to Improve Water Use Efficiency

      View case study
    • Radiation processing, using electron beams or gamma rays, is employed to disinfect wastewater by inactivating pathogens and reducing harmful microorganisms. This technique provides a safe and effective method for treating wastewater, contributing to improved water quality and public health.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      China Pioneers Medical Wastewater Treatment with Electron Beam Technology

      View case study
    • Nuclear desalination uses heat from nuclear reactors to desalinate seawater, providing a sustainable and reliable source of fresh water. By integrating desalination plants with nuclear power stations, this technology addresses water scarcity in arid regions and contributes to sustainable water resource management.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques and nuclear analytical methods are used to study urban environments, providing valuable information for urban planning and development. By tracking the movement of water, pollutants, and materials, researchers can assess the impacts of urbanisation and develop sustainable urban infrastructure.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Transforming Urban Water Management Through Isotopic Techniques

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Nuclear process heat involves using the heat generated by nuclear reactors for industrial processes, such as hydrogen production, desalination, and chemical manufacturing. This provides a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels for high-temperature industrial applications.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies
    • Nuclear energy is generated by harnessing the energy released from nuclear fission, the splitting of atoms. Nuclear power plants use this energy to produce electricity, providing a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels and contributing to energy security.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies
    • Nuclear desalination uses heat from nuclear reactors to desalinate seawater, providing a sustainable and reliable source of fresh water. By integrating desalination plants with nuclear power stations, this technology addresses water scarcity in arid regions and contributes to sustainable water resource management.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies
  • Applications

    • Radiation therapy is a medical technique that uses ionising radiation to treat cancer. By precisely targeting and damaging the DNA of cancerous cells, radiation therapy inhibits their growth and division, leading to tumour shrinkage and destruction. It is a cornerstone of cancer treatment, often used in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Ethiopia Strengthens Cancer Control with Enhanced Equipment, Training, and Licensing

      View case study
    • Radiopharmaceuticals are radioactive drugs used for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic interventions in nuclear medicine. By targeting specific organs or tissues, radiopharmaceuticals provide valuable insights into physiological processes and deliver targeted radiation therapy for various diseases.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Radiopharmaceuticals Advance Cancer Treatment in Asia

      View case study
    • Nuclear process heat involves using the heat generated by nuclear reactors for industrial processes, such as hydrogen production, desalination, and chemical manufacturing. This provides a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels for high-temperature industrial applications.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies
    • Radiography and other nuclear techniques are used for non-destructive testing (NDT) to inspect materials and structures without causing damage. By using gamma rays or X-rays to penetrate materials and detect flaws, NDT ensures the quality and safety of various components and structures.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Non-Destructive Testing Enhances Malaysia’s Competitiveness Through Nuclear Science

      View case study
    • Radiation processing, using electron beams or ion beams, is employed to modify the properties of materials, such as polymers, metals, and semiconductors. By inducing changes in the molecular structure or crystal lattice, radiation processing can enhance material performance, durability, and functionality.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Radiation Processing Empowers Malaysian SMEs, Driving Automotive Sector Growth

      View case study
    • Nuclear medicine employs radioactive isotopes for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic interventions. By using radiopharmaceuticals that target specific organs or tissues, nuclear medicine provides valuable insights into physiological processes and delivers targeted radiation therapy for various diseases.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Radiopharmaceuticals Advance Cancer Treatment in Asia

      View case study
    • Nuclear desalination uses heat from nuclear reactors to desalinate seawater, providing a sustainable and reliable source of fresh water. By integrating desalination plants with nuclear power stations, this technology addresses water scarcity in arid regions and contributes to sustainable water resource management.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques and radiation processing are used to study the mechanisms of diseases and develop strategies for prevention. By using radioactive tracers to track biological processes and radiation to sterilise medical equipment and develop vaccines, researchers gain insights into disease pathways and develop effective interventions.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Combating Avian Influenza: Nuclear Technologies at the Forefront

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Radiation therapy is a medical technique that uses ionising radiation to treat cancer. By precisely targeting and damaging the DNA of cancerous cells, radiation therapy inhibits their growth and division, leading to tumour shrinkage and destruction. It is a cornerstone of cancer treatment, often used in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Ethiopia Strengthens Cancer Control with Enhanced Equipment, Training, and Licensing

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Nuclear analytical techniques, such as Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF), are used to determine the elemental composition of cultural artefacts. By analysing the characteristic radiation emitted by the materials, these techniques provide valuable insights into the origin, manufacturing techniques, and authenticity of artefacts without causing significant damage.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      IAEA E-Learning Course Empowers Scientists Globally in Neutron Activation Analysis

      View case study
    • Radiation processing, using gamma rays, is employed to preserve fragile cultural artefacts, such as paper documents, textiles, and wooden objects, by eliminating insects, fungi, and bacteria. This technique provides a safe and effective method for disinfecting and consolidating artefacts without causing significant damage.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Nuclear Technologies Safeguard Malta’s Ancient Heritage

      View case study
    • Nuclear analytical techniques, such as isotope analysis and Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA), are used to determine the origin and provenance of cultural artefacts. By analysing the isotopic composition and elemental makeup of materials, these techniques provide valuable insights into the geographical sources and trade routes of artefacts.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Safeguarding Cultural Heritage with Gamma Irradiation

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques and nuclear analytical methods are used to study urban environments, providing valuable information for urban planning and development. By tracking the movement of water, pollutants, and materials, researchers can assess the impacts of urbanisation and develop sustainable urban infrastructure.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Transforming Urban Water Management Through Isotopic Techniques

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Radiography and other nuclear techniques are used for non-destructive testing (NDT) to inspect materials and structures without causing damage. By using gamma rays or X-rays to penetrate materials and detect flaws, NDT ensures the quality and safety of various components and structures.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Non-Destructive Testing Enhances Malaysia’s Competitiveness Through Nuclear Science

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to monitor soil erosion by tracking the movement of soil particles. By introducing radioactive tracers into the soil and measuring their distribution, researchers can assess erosion rates and identify critical areas for soil conservation.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Nuclear Techniques Combat Land Degradation: Targeted Impact Across Asia-Pacific Nations

      View case study
    • Radiation processing, using electron beams or ion beams, is employed to modify the properties of materials, such as polymers, metals, and semiconductors. By inducing changes in the molecular structure or crystal lattice, radiation processing can enhance material performance, durability, and functionality.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Radiation Processing Empowers Malaysian SMEs, Driving Automotive Sector Growth

      View case study
    • Radiation sterilisation, using gamma rays or electron beams, is a technique used to sterilise medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and other products by inactivating microorganisms. This method provides a safe, effective, and reliable way to ensure the sterility of products, contributing to improved healthcare and safety.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Medical Equipment Sterilisation in Ghana

      View case study
    • Radiation processing, using electron beams or gamma rays, is employed to disinfect wastewater by inactivating pathogens and reducing harmful microorganisms. This technique provides a safe and effective method for treating wastewater, contributing to improved water quality and public health.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      China Pioneers Medical Wastewater Treatment with Electron Beam Technology

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to track the movement and dispersion of pollutants in marine environments. By introducing radioactive tracers into pollutants and measuring their distribution, researchers can assess the pathways, rates, and impacts of marine pollution.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Addressing Harmful Algal Blooms in Asia and the Pacific: An IAEA Technical Cooperation Initiative

      View case study
    • Soil nutrient management using isotopic techniques allows for the precise determination of nutrient uptake and loss in agricultural systems. This provides data for optimising fertiliser application, minimising waste, and improving soil health.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Farmers Using Nuclear Science to Improve Water Use Efficiency

      View case study
    • Isotopic tracers optimise fertiliser and water usage, improving crop yields and resource efficiency. The use of stable or radioactive isotopes allows for the tracking of nutrient and water uptake within plants and soil. This data provides insights into efficient resource management, leading to enhanced agricultural productivity.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Validating New Agricultural Models Using Nuclear Science

      View case study
    • Nuclear Irradiation techniques enhance food safety by eliminating pathogens and extending shelf life. These processes utilise ionising radiation to damage the DNA of microorganisms, effectively killing them or preventing their reproduction. This reduction in microbial load significantly minimises post-harvest losses and increases the availability of consumable food.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      The Use of Irradiation to Control Fruit Fly Infestations in Fruit Harvests

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to study groundwater flow, water recharge, and contaminant transport, providing valuable information for sustainable water resource management. By introducing radioactive tracers into water bodies and measuring their movement, researchers can assess water availability, identify sources of pollution, and optimise water use.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Farmers Using Nuclear Science to Improve Water Use Efficiency

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to study sediment transport in rivers and coastal areas. By introducing radioactive tracers into sediments and measuring their movement, researchers can assess erosion rates, sediment deposition, and the impact of human activities on sediment dynamics.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Caribbean Marine Labs Uncover Sedimentation’s Impact on Sea Life

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing and other nuclear techniques are used in oceanography to study ocean currents, mixing processes, and biogeochemical cycles. By tracking the movement of radioactive tracers and analysing their distribution, researchers gain insights into ocean dynamics and environmental processes.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Unravelling Ocean Acidification: Nuclear Techniques Provide Critical Insights

      View case study
    • Nuclear process heat involves using the heat generated by nuclear reactors for industrial processes, such as hydrogen production, desalination, and chemical manufacturing. This provides a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels for high-temperature industrial applications.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies
    • Nuclear energy is generated by harnessing the energy released from nuclear fission, the splitting of atoms. Nuclear power plants use this energy to produce electricity, providing a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels and contributing to energy security.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques and nuclear analytical methods are used to study urban environments, providing valuable information for urban planning and development. By tracking the movement of water, pollutants, and materials, researchers can assess the impacts of urbanisation and develop sustainable urban infrastructure.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Transforming Urban Water Management Through Isotopic Techniques

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques and nuclear analytical methods are used to study climate processes and reconstruct past climate conditions. By analysing the isotopic composition of environmental archives, such as ice cores, tree rings, and sediments, researchers gain insights into climate variability and the impacts of climate change.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Unlocking Climate History: Isotopic Records and Global Insights

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to study sediment transport in rivers and coastal areas. By introducing radioactive tracers into sediments and measuring their movement, researchers can assess erosion rates, sediment deposition, and the impact of human activities on sediment dynamics.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Caribbean Marine Labs Uncover Sedimentation’s Impact on Sea Life

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing and other nuclear techniques are used in oceanography to study ocean currents, mixing processes, and biogeochemical cycles. By tracking the movement of radioactive tracers and analysing their distribution, researchers gain insights into ocean dynamics and environmental processes.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Unravelling Ocean Acidification: Nuclear Techniques Provide Critical Insights

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques and nuclear analytical methods are used to study climate processes and reconstruct past climate conditions. By analysing the isotopic composition of environmental archives, such as ice cores, tree rings, and sediments, researchers gain insights into climate variability and the impacts of climate change.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Unlocking Climate History: Isotopic Records and Global Insights

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to track the movement and dispersion of pollutants in marine environments. By introducing radioactive tracers into pollutants and measuring their distribution, researchers can assess the pathways, rates, and impacts of marine pollution.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Addressing Harmful Algal Blooms in Asia and the Pacific: An IAEA Technical Cooperation Initiative

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to study groundwater flow, water recharge, and contaminant transport, providing valuable information for sustainable water resource management. By introducing radioactive tracers into water bodies and measuring their movement, researchers can assess water availability, identify sources of pollution, and optimise water use.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Farmers Using Nuclear Science to Improve Water Use Efficiency

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to study sediment transport in rivers and coastal areas. By introducing radioactive tracers into sediments and measuring their movement, researchers can assess erosion rates, sediment deposition, and the impact of human activities on sediment dynamics.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Caribbean Marine Labs Uncover Sedimentation’s Impact on Sea Life

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques are used to monitor soil erosion by tracking the movement of soil particles. By introducing radioactive tracers into the soil and measuring their distribution, researchers can assess erosion rates and identify critical areas for soil conservation.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Nuclear Techniques Combat Land Degradation: Targeted Impact Across Asia-Pacific Nations

      View case study
    • Radioisotope tracing techniques and nuclear analytical methods are used to study climate processes and reconstruct past climate conditions. By analysing the isotopic composition of environmental archives, such as ice cores, tree rings, and sediments, researchers gain insights into climate variability and the impacts of climate change.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Unlocking Climate History: Isotopic Records and Global Insights

      View case study
    • Soil nutrient management using isotopic techniques allows for the precise determination of nutrient uptake and loss in agricultural systems. This provides data for optimising fertiliser application, minimising waste, and improving soil health.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Farmers Using Nuclear Science to Improve Water Use Efficiency

      View case study
    • Isotopic tracers optimise fertiliser and water usage, improving crop yields and resource efficiency. The use of stable or radioactive isotopes allows for the tracking of nutrient and water uptake within plants and soil. This data provides insights into efficient resource management, leading to enhanced agricultural productivity.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Validating New Agricultural Models Using Nuclear Science

      View case study
  • Applications

    • Nuclear analytical techniques, such as Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF), are used to determine the elemental composition of cultural artefacts. By analysing the characteristic radiation emitted by the materials, these techniques provide valuable insights into the origin, manufacturing techniques, and authenticity of artefacts without causing significant damage.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      IAEA E-Learning Course Empowers Scientists Globally in Neutron Activation Analysis

      View case study
    • Radiation processing, using gamma rays, is employed to preserve fragile cultural artefacts, such as paper documents, textiles, and wooden objects, by eliminating insects, fungi, and bacteria. This technique provides a safe and effective method for disinfecting and consolidating artefacts without causing significant damage.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Nuclear Technologies Safeguard Malta’s Ancient Heritage

      View case study
    • Nuclear analytical techniques, such as isotope analysis and Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA), are used to determine the origin and provenance of cultural artefacts. By analysing the isotopic composition and elemental makeup of materials, these techniques provide valuable insights into the geographical sources and trade routes of artefacts.

      Want to see some specific technologies for this application? View technologies

      Case Study

      Safeguarding Cultural Heritage with Gamma Irradiation

      View case study