Protection of the environment from exposure to ionising radiation: why and how evolution is timely for the ICRP system

Currently, several task groups are addressing complementary aspects in support of improved ICRP's recommendations and ultimately, a more robust approach to protection of the environment from deleterious effects of exposure to ionising radiation. In this context, ongoing developments are briefly presented, with some examples of new methods that have been conceived and implemented (e.g. statistical extrapolation models to quantify the range of radiosensitivity within a taxonomic class and derive transparently and systematically benchmark values or ranges such as the Derived Consideration Reference levels- DCRLs). This paper also addresses the main goals of the ongoing task groups dealing with various aspects of Environmental Radiological Protection (ERP) and their interactions, and the potential need for reformulation of the goal(s) for ERP. The approaches taken by the task groups and the outcomes of their work are expected to inform an inclusive and holistic justification and optimisation process to be considered in the review of the general recommendations of the ICRP.