RCA events in 2004 will start from a regional training course (RTC) on the 'Application of Nuclear and Isotopic Techniques to Identify the Source and Distribution of Contaminants in Heavily Polluted Coastal Regions'. This RTC will be held in 12-21 January 2003 at the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), Quezon City, the Philippines.

The training course is designed to demonstrate the current state of selected nuclear techniques to identify the source and migration of contaminants and carbon flows in heavily polluted coastal zones. Considering the marine coastal environment pollution is an impending issue in the region, it is believed the RTC is a timely appropriate programme to devise ways of handling such pollution.

The course will consist of lectures and practical demonstration on the use of radiotracers and a range of stable isotope techniques as well as C-14 counting technique. Demonstration of sampling techniques for stable isotopes will be carried out at Manila Bay. The invited lecturers are from IAEA, ANSTO and PAEC (Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission). However, local contribution will also be highlighted. Experts from PNRI, the Marine Science Institute and National Institute of Geological Sciences both of the University of the Philippines, Diliman Campus will give special lectures.

For more information, please contact Ms Pilar Roceles with pcroceles@yahoo.com or
Dr Alumanda dela Rosa with amdelarosa@pnri.dost.gov.ph.