Cognitive Impact

Scientific and educational impact

Project 21ROMD has generated a significant cognitive impact by strengthening interdisciplinary research capacity in the fields of environmental radioactivity, radiological protection, and radon monitoring in both Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

One of the major achievements is the development of a common digital infrastructure for the integration, visualization, and analysis of data related to naturally occurring radionuclides in soil, radon, and ambient gamma dose rate.

From a scientific perspective, the project enabled:

• Development and validation of a common methodology for environmental radiological measurements and data interpretation;
• Harmonization of experimental protocols for laboratory and in situ measurements;
• Improvement of data quality and comparability at regional level;
• Development of expertise in GIS technologies, digital platforms, and spatial analysis tools.

Knowledge transfer between partners was achieved through research visits, joint laboratory activities, and hands-on training, directly contributing to the professional development of researchers, PhD students, and specialists.

Socio-economic Impact

Public health and institutional capacity

From a socio-economic perspective, the project has a direct impact on public health and on institutional capacity to respond to environmental radiological risks.

By identifying areas with elevated radiological potential and buildings with increased indoor radon concentrations, the project results support preventive actions and public policies aimed at reducing population exposure to natural radiation sources.

The main socio-economic benefits include:

• Improved public health protection, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, students, and staff in schools and public institutions;
• Support for national and local authorities in decision-making related to environmental monitoring and Council Directive 2013/59/EURATOM;
• Optimization of monitoring costs through digitalization and automation of data workflows;
• Creation of a sustainable digital infrastructure reusable for future environmental projects;
• Strengthening cross-border cooperation between Romania and the Republic of Moldova.