Nuclear science and technology are profoundly transforming diverse sectors of human life, from health to agriculture, energy and the environment. These advances will be at the heart of discussions at the IAEA Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Science, Technology and Applications, a global event where experts, decision-makers and stakeholders will come together to shape nuclear policies and promote the socio-economic benefits of these technologies.
Solutions for health, agriculture and energy
Nuclear medicine, including diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy, plays a crucial role in treating diseases such as cancer.
The IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative aims to improve access to these technologies in developing countries, where 70% of cancer-related deaths occur.
In agriculture, innovations such as food irradiation and genetic mutation breeding are helping to improve food security. Ghana, for example, is using these techniques to improve crop resilience and reduce post-harvest losses.
In energy, small modular reactors and advanced reactors offer promising solutions to meet the growing demand for clean, reliable energy while contributing to the fight against climate change.
A driving force for sustainable development
Applications of nuclear technologies are not limited to health or agriculture, but also contribute to the sustainable management of water resources, the fight against plastic pollution and the training of skilled human resources.
The IAEA’s technical cooperation programme has trained hundreds of experts in regions such as Africa, helping to fill gaps in technological know-how.
Restoring confidence in nuclear energy
Technological advances and safety protocols have helped restore confidence in nuclear energy after major accidents such as Chernobyl and Fukushima.
Today, this energy is seen as an essential lever for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of health, food security and environmental sustainability.
Towards a sustainable future through nuclear science
Nuclear science is not just a technology, it is a powerful tool to address global challenges.
However, its deployment requires enhanced international cooperation, strong regulatory frameworks and investment in infrastructure. Raising public awareness of its benefits and risks is also essential to ensure its equitable and efficient use.
From medicine to energy, nuclear technologies are transforming the world, IAEA Ministerial Conference explores these innovations to address challenges technology is a powerful tool to address global challenges.
However, its deployment requires enhanced international cooperation, strong regulatory frameworks and investment in infrastructure. Raising public awareness of its benefits and risks is also essential to ensure its equitable and effective use.
