“Following the Science”: In Search of Evidence-Based Policy for Indoor Air Pollution from Radon in Ireland

Anthea R Lacchia,Aparajita Banerjee,Geertje Schuitema

doi:10.3390/su12219197

Anthea R Lacchia, Aparajita Banerjee + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/su12219197

Copy DOI

Abstract

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate inside dwellings, represents the second biggest cause of lung cancer globally. In Ireland, radon is linked to approximately 300 lung cancer cases every year, equating to 12% of all lung cancer deaths. Despite the health risks posed by radon air pollution, Ireland lacks well-defined and universally applicable air pollution-related public health policies. Through purposive literature sampling, we critically examine the case of indoor radon policy development in Ireland. Specifically, we analyse the evidence-based policymaking process relating to indoor radon pollution from three different knowledge dimensions, namely political, scientific, and practical knowledge. In doing so, we identify various challenges inherent to pollution-related public policymaking. We highlight the difficulties of balancing and integrating information from multiple disciplines and perspectives and argue that input from multiple scientific areas is crucial, but can only be achieved through continued, dialogic communication between stakeholders. On the basis of our analysis, we suggest that a transdisciplinary perspective, defined as a holistic approach which subordinates disciplines and looks at the dynamics of whole systems, will allow evidence-based policymaking to be effective. We end with recommendations for evidence-based policymaking when it comes to public health hazards such as radon, which are applicable to sustainable air pollution management beyond Ireland.

Highlights

Radon is the second biggest cause of lung cancer globally, after tobacco smoking, and accounts for about 3% to 14% of all lung cancers [1,2]
The first step in exploring policy around indoor radon is to understand the three knowledge dimensions that are relevant to this public health hazard (Figure 1)
Purposive literature sampling allowed us to identify sources of evidence on indoor radon with respect to political, scientific, and practical knowledge

Summary

Introduction

Radon is the second biggest cause of lung cancer globally, after tobacco smoking, and accounts for about 3% to 14% of all lung cancers [1,2]. Radon exposure-related lung cancer fatalities are estimated to be around 18,000 in Europe [3] and 21,000 in the USA [4]. Smokers are vulnerable as they are estimated to be 25 times more at risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure than non-smokers [2]. In Ireland, radon is estimated to cause approximately 300 lung cancer cases every year, representing 12% of all annual lung cancer cases [5]. Indoor radon concentration levels are measured in becquerels per cubic meter (Bq.m3) and tested by placing detectors inside dwellings. Preventative measures include the installation of plastic sheets in the foundation of a house during construction, to avert radon seeping inside over time [1]

Objectives

Results

Discussion

Conclusion