Marshall Islands radioactivity levels have dropped
JUN 07, 2016
DOI: 10.1063/PT.5.029879
Science : Because the US conducted extensive nuclear testing there during the 1940s and 1950s, several islands in the Marshall Island chain became highly contaminated and had to be abandoned. Almost 60 years later, researchers have determined that the gamma radiation levels of five of the islands have dropped to less than 40 millirem per year, well below the 100 millirem per year threshold deemed safe for human habitation. Bikini Island, however, still registers 184 millirem per year. Because people can absorb radiation in other ways, such as by consuming contaminated food, more tests will be needed before anyone will be allowed to occupy the islands.
© 2016 American Institute of Physics
