Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the radioactive decay of radium and uranium. The gas causes cancer and can be held responsible for 9% of all tumor cases in Europe. This equates to at least 30,000 deaths per year in Europe.

Geology is the most important factor enabling control of the source and distribution of radon. Relatively high levels of radon emissions are associated with particular types of bedrock and superficial deposits; for example some, but not all, granite, ironstone, shale rich in organic materials and rocks rich in phosphate minerals.

 

The geological map shows the likely potential for radon to be present in a given area. This allows us to warn people and therefore mitigate the risks. Radon maps do exist in some countries within Europe, but not all.