Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency –
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In early October, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inaugurated the new M. C. Curie-L. Meitner Nuclear Applications Centre at its laboratories in Seibersdorf, marking the successful completion of the ReNuAL2 (Renovation of Nuclear Applications Laboratories) project. This project aimed to modernize the Agency's nuclear science and applications laboratories and strengthen scientific support to Member States in the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology.
The new Nuclear Applications Centre—named after nuclear pioneers Marie Skłodowska-Curie and Lise Meitner—will provide state-of-the-art equipment to three of the IAEA's eight nuclear science and applications laboratories in Seibersdorf. The Terrestrial Radiochemistry Laboratory supports the fight against radioactive, industrial, and environmental pollutants. The Plant Breeding and Genetics Laboratory, one of five laboratories within the FAO/IAEA Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratories in Seibersdorf, develops high-yielding and resilient crops, and the Nuclear Science and Instrumentation Laboratory helps countries apply a range of nuclear analytical techniques.
At the opening ceremony, attended by high-ranking officials and government representatives from 33 countries, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi noted that the renovation of the laboratories is a major investment in the development of nuclear applications.
"This is not just a successful modernization; it was made possible by strategic thinking, dedication, and partnership," emphasized Director-General Grossi. "Thanks to the new M.C. Curie-L. Meitner Center, our scientists and partners from around the world will be able to collaborate, innovate, and develop practical solutions that will improve public health, food security, and environmental protection."
Completion of the ReNuAL2 project was made possible thanks to the active support of IAEA Member States and partners. A total of 52 Member States contributed extrabudgetary funds and also provided institutional and in-kind support through their governments and organizations. Their collective commitment and partnership played a significant role in transforming the Seibersdorf laboratories into a modern facility equipped to meet the growing needs of countries in the application of nuclear science and technology.
Mareike Wörrle, Minister-Counselor of the Federal Republic of Germany and Co-Chair of the Friends of ReNuAL organization, noted: "We are proud of the applied scientific work carried out in the laboratories in Seibersdorf. We share a common goal: to serve people by collaborating to solve common problems."
The IAEA's Nuclear Applications Laboratories in Seibersdorf, located about an hour's drive from Vienna, were built in 1959 to support the Agency's work in assisting Member States in the peaceful applications of nuclear technology through training, services and applied research.
“This is an example of how science and innovation are helping our Member States address global challenges by making agriculture and food systems more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable,” said FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu. “FAO is committed to our long-term partnership with the IAEA and the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre, which ensures that innovation brings real benefits to people. This is a vital partnership. Together, we achieve greater results, working within the UN system for the benefit of our Member States.”
In addition, within the framework of the ReNuAL2 project, in addition to the new M. S. Curie and L. Meitner Centre, new modern greenhouses were built to improve climate-smart agriculture and water management methods, and a completely renovated facility for Dosimetry laboratory to help fight cancer and improve the safety of radiation therapy for patients.
"The successful completion of the ReNuAL2 project is a significant milestone for the Agency," said Lunga Bengu, Deputy Permanent Representative of South Africa to the UN Office at Vienna. "I am honored to express my appreciation to all Member States for their contributions and tireless efforts to address challenges and achieve significant advances in the peaceful uses of nuclear science and applications for the common good."
The ceremony took place shortly after discoveries On September 17, the new IAEA Visitor Centre in Seibersdorf, Austria, unique spaces where visitors can learn about the Agency's mission and how nuclear science and technology help solve global problems.
"I've visited this center twice in the last two weeks," said Gabriela Zellner, Permanent Representative of Austria to the UN Office in Vienna. "This is clear evidence of the IAEA's active work in Seibersdorf. Austria is very proud that IAEA laboratories have been successfully operating in our country since 1962."
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