During normal operation, authorised discharges of radionuclides can occur in very low quantities, controlled by radiological limits, environmental monitoring, and reporting. This does not mean that a plant 'irradiates' the environment continuously at dangerous levels. Institutional sources distinguish between authorised emissions, effective dose to the public, and natural background levels.
All FAQ
12.
Do nuclear power plants continuously emit radiation into the air?
Partially true, but in a regulated and monitored manner.
