Biospheric approach as a compromise between hygienic and ecological approaches to radiological protection of the environment

¹ The Agricultural Radioecology Research Institute, 249020 Obninsk, Russian Federation
² Nuclear Safety Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (IBRAE RAS), 52 B. Tulskaya St., 115191 Moscow, Russian Federation

Abstract

In the paper it demonstrates that for more precise and comprehensive interpretation under the framework of biospheric concept, the anthropocentric paradigm, being now the one of the basic principles in radiation protection, should be reformulated and amended (an immediate switch to ecological concept involves significant changes and calls for solution of very complicated scientific problems). It is suggested that application of the biospheric approach within the bounds of the modified hygienic principle allows resolving the majority of contradictions between anthropocentric and ecological approaches. This may represent a more perspective course of the radiation protection system development compared to a simple change of fundamental paradigms.