International Atomic Energy Agency – Marine Environment Laboratories

The IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories, located in Monaco, work with Member States to develop science-based strategies for the sustainable management of marine resources. Together, they apply nuclear and isotopic science to understand and mitigate the environmental impacts of radionuclides, trace metals and organic contaminants (PCBs, hydrocarbons), as well as to study climate change impacts, habitat destruction and biodiversity loss. This includes for example measuring and monitoring contaminants in the oceans, such as mercury, or plastics, as well as biotoxins associated with harmful algal blooms, and studying how these are transferred to marine animals. The IAEA, through its Technical Cooperation programme, supports projects across the world to share expertise and develop capacity within Member States to apply nuclear techniques to help protect people and the environment as well as contribute to sustainable development and trade. The IAEA provides technical assistance with partners such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO.