Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA
IAEA scientists taking samples in Antarctica as part of a 2024 research mission to study the impact of plastic pollution on the region and its inhabitants.
In 2024, the IAEA advanced its research and development efforts across diverse applications of nuclear science.
The Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action (ZODIAC) initiative expanded its reach, equipping nearly 40 veterinary laboratories with cutting-edge diagnostic tools and training over 1000 professionals across 130 countries. With 129 national laboratories now part of its network, ZODIAC fosters international collaboration through its dedicated portal.
Cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, yet nearly half of all patients lack access to radiotherapy. To address this, the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative expanded its network of Anchor Centres to 11, and supported a Lancet Oncology Commission which published a comprehensive roadmap outlining strategies to address global radiotherapy gaps, improve access and reduce the cancer burden worldwide.
NUTEC Plastics achieved groundbreaking research results, confirming microplastics in Antarctica through a study with Argentine research stations, supported by the IAEA’s Monaco Marine Environment Laboratories. The initiative expanded its 100-country laboratory network, driving global plastic pollution monitoring and research. It also advanced innovative solutions, using ionizing radiation to develop bio-based plastics, reducing reliance on petroleum-based materials and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
The IAEA also developed methods to verify the authenticity of foods with specific geographic origins, by using stable isotope analysis to identify cases of fraud. This breakthrough enhances food authenticity and integrity in global markets.
In agriculture, advanced diagnostic assays developed by the Agency’s Plant Breeding and Genetics Laboratory provide rapid, reliable, and resource-efficient tools for disease detection, addressing challenges exacerbated by climate change.
Since its launch in 2023, Atoms4Food has supported agrifood transformation through innovations in cropping systems, livestock productivity, and natural resource management. Through the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre, a roadmap for a protein digestibility database was developed to guide evidence-based dietary policies.
The Agency is also advancing industrial 3D printing by using non-destructive testing techniques like X rays and gamma computed tomography scans to ensure the quality and safety of 3D-printed components, supporting industries with more reliable production processes.
The Global Network of Water Analysis Laboratories (GloWAL) completed its baseline survey in 2024, involving 85 laboratories from 65 countries. The results will inform capacity-building efforts in isotope hydrology, with a focus on regional networks, including a Latin America-led initiative starting in 2025.
Upcoming in 2025: In 2025, the IAEA will continue advancing key global initiatives aimed at addressing some of the most pressing development challenges facing countries today. Rays of Hope, working closely with Anchor Centres, will enhance cancer care through regional capacity-building. Additionally, the development of the SUNRISE database will contribute to advancing radiation medicine, enabling policymakers and practitioners to leverage insights that strengthen cancer care worldwide. ZODIAC will expand its network and focus on disease forecasting, particularly zoonotic and climate-related health risks. NUTEC Plastics will address plastic pollution with upcycling technology and expand its marine microplastic monitoring network. Atoms4Food will scale nuclear technologies to improve food security and support climate-resilient crops, alongside its work on a protein digestibility database. GloWAL will continue to focus on capacity-building in isotope hydrology. The ReNuAL2 laboratory upgrades will strengthen the IAEA’s role in addressing food, health, and environmental challenges.