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Chemicals and radioactivity

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We work on the environmental aspects of chemical nuclear and radioactive matters to where exposure may cause harm to the environment and people.

Chemicals

Many chemicals occur naturally. Others are manufactured or released accidentally or as by-products or breakdown products. Exposure to some chemicals may cause harm to the environment and public health.

Welsh Government works with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the other Devolved Administrations, local authorities, the Environment Agency and other regulatory bodies to ensure the environmental safety of industrial chemicals, by-products, pesticides, biocides and veterinary medicines.

Radioactivity

The Welsh Government is responsible for the environmental effects of radioactivity in Wales. We work with:

  • the Environment Agency (EA) - to monitor & control radioactive waste and discharges; and
  • the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) - to control worker safety on Welsh nuclear sites and research centres, and any direct public exposure from their operations.