UVBalueilta

UVBalueilta is a term used in Finnish environmental science to describe a dataset and modelling framework for ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation values across geographic regions. The concept is employed to analyze spatial and temporal variation in UVB exposure, support public health guidance, and inform ecological and agricultural research. The name combines UVB with alueilta, Finnish for 'from areas', signaling its regional focus.

Overview and data sources: UVBalueilta integrates measurements from ground-based spectroradiometers, satellite-derived UVB estimates, and radiative transfer models. Data are quality-checked, harmonized to a common grid, and provided with uncertainty estimates. The standard product is a gridded, time-resolved UVB index that can be used alongside other environmental indicators.

Applications: The dataset supports skin cancer risk assessment, vitamin D synthesis studies, and urban planning to minimize excessive UV exposure in public spaces. It is also used in ecological modelling of plant stress and in verification of atmospheric composition studies.

Limitations and challenges: UVB retrievals are sensitive to cloud cover, aerosols, and surface albedo. Spatial resolution and temporal consistency vary by region, and uncertainties propagate into health risk estimates. Documentation emphasizes best practices for interpretation and use.

History: The term emerged in Finnish research in the early 2010s as part of efforts to standardize UV radiation reporting. It has since been adopted by several national agencies and research collaborations, though it remains less common outside Finland.

Related topics include ultraviolet radiation, UV index, solar radiation, and atmospheric optics.