The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced Friday that it will be playing a role in the goal of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) developed by the United Nations (UN).
During an IAEA general meeting earlier this month, IAEA Director General, Yukiya Amano said that the proposed goals in the SDGs and the agency’s own goals overlapped by a significant amount.
The IAEA will be able to assist in multiple areas noted in the SGDs including: food security, water quality and security, health and well being, modern energy that is reliable and affordable, combating climate change, conservation and sustainable uses of oceans and to promote the sustainable use of natural habitats among other sections.
The IAEA said that it assists countries by providing the necessary technology to irradiate food items so that harmful bacteria and pests are eliminated in a way that does not endanger human health. According to the IAEA, irradiation allows for high quality food that is safe for consumption.
The IAEA also supports national efforts in establishing nuclear medical techniques including radiation oncology and radiological therapy. The IAEA supports research reactors that produce radioisotopes capable of limiting radiation exposure in patients.
