EVANET-TERRA - evaluation and network of EC - decision support systems in the field of terrestrial radioecological research

The EC 3 rd and 4 th framework programs have produced several models and Decision Support System (DSS) in order to assess the radioactive contamination of terrestrial ecosystems. However a critical evaluation of such systems had not been undertaken. The EVANET-TERRA network has been established in order to perform such a task. A comprehensive methodology have been adopted; the uncertainty and sensitivity analysis have been performed in order to establish the differences between conceptual and constructed model, while the model-scenario comparison has been used to determine how the predictions fit empirical data. A synthesis of the current state-of-the-art regarding terrestrial radioecological models has been produced and recommendations have been made for further research needs.