The RadoNorm project took centre stage at the Radon Week and ROOMS Workshop — a conference bringing together members of the international scientific community, radon testers, diagnosticians, educators, public stakeholders, business leaders, and regulatory authorities. Organised by the European Radon Association, the event took place in Madeira, Portugal, on 7 – 10 October 2024 and featured a variety of presentations showcasing cutting-edge research and innovations in radon risk management.

RadoNorm researchers made significant contributions across multiple sessions, sharing key findings from their ongoing work. Wolfgang Ringer from AGES presented the results of the study titled “Effectiveness of Passive Radon Drainage Systems in New Homes in Upper Austria,” providing insights into mitigation strategies for radon exposure in residential settings. Tanja Perko from SCK CEN, along with collaborators from MERIENCE, University of Antwerp, and a student from the University of Ljubljana, presented two major studies: “What We Need to Communicate? Results from Evidence-Based Research” and “European Radon Behavioural Atlas: Insights from the Largest and Most Comprehensive Study in Europe.” These presentations shed light on radon-related behavior patterns across Europe and the challenges in effective communication strategies. Catarina Antunes from EPA introduced “The RadAR Project,” one of RadoNorm’s 11 citizen science initiatives. This project exemplifies how citizen engagement can enhance radon monitoring and encourage remediation efforts. Additionally, Sofie Apers from the University of Antwerp and SCK CEN unveiled “Radon Busters Across Europe: Theory-Based, Evidence-Based, and Strategic Radon Risk Communication,” a communication toolkit designed to improve public understanding and response to radon risks. Meanwhile, Laura Mezquita from the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona – IDIBAPS, discussed medical perspectives in her presentation, “Radon and Health: How Physicians Approach Communication?” Valeria Gruber from AGES, together with partners from BfS, SCK CEN, SURO, and University Matej Bell, presented “Treatment or Threat? – Challenges and Strategies in Radon Communication in Austria.” This research focused on radon spas, addressing the delicate balance between the potential therapeutic uses of radon and its health risks, while discussing strategies for communicating these nuances effectively to the public.

Through these presentations, the RadoNorm team demonstrated that their research is not only impactful but also poised to significantly enhance radon risk mitigation and radon protection behaviour across Europe. The ongoing work promises to contribute to improved policies and practices in tackling radon exposure, benefitting both individuals in exposure situations and public health policymakers alike.