The Estonian Environmental Board and the Finnish Radiation Center concluded an agreement on radiation-specific cooperation

On the 24th of May 2019 the Environmental Board and the Finnish Radiation Center (STUK) signed a Memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing mutual cooperation, in particular in the field of nuclear and radiation-specific data exchange and emergency response.The conclusion of the Memorandum has an importance, among other things, for cooperation between Estonian and Finnish radiation authorities in the field of radiation monitoring, know-how, decision-making concerning the nuclear facilities, organization of joint military exercises, legislation and the exchange of any kind of know-how.The cooperation agreement was signed by Riho Kuppart, Director General of the Environmental Board and Petteri Tiippana, Director General of the Finnish Radiation Center.“So far, the cooperation up to this day between the two institutions has already been significant and close. Now, for the first time, we are signing a specific agreement to which to make reference in our future work. The agreements will simplify and mutually aid better addressing of the Estonian and Finnish radiation issues. For the ordinary citizen, this may be considered as a step closer towards a joint effort for a safer environment,” said Riho Kuppart, Director General of the Environmental Board.Petteri Tiippana recognized the utmost importance of cooperation between neighbouring countries for addressing the radiation and nuclear safety issues. He highlighted that such cooperation becomes specially significant in the event of possible emergencies demanding some urgent action to protect the citizens and the environment. "Only in case of an effective cooperation, can we be sure that decision-making in neighboring countries is based on the same risk assessment criteria," said Director General Petteri Tiippana.More information: Ilmar PuskarManger of the Radiation Centre of the Environmental Boarde-mail: [email protected] telephone: 5266 477Sille AderSpokesperson for the Environmental Board e-mail: [email protected] telephone: 5745 0332