This book also focuses on the interface between the technical inputs to environmental decision-making and the socio-political context in which decisions are made. Effective professional scientists and engineers need to understand this context because these socially-derived factors influence the fate of their input. As well, they need to understand the social and values-based components of their professional practice that in turn influence the interpretation of their input by stakeholders.
Each chapter evaluates a stage in the process of decision-making. There are also chapters which explore conceptual themes, including "world views," public participation, risk, professional responsibility, and politics.
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1: Introduction
CHAPTER 2: Sustainability
CHAPTER 3: The decision-making "road"
CHAPTER 4: Value systems & paradigms
CHAPTER 5: Gathering & using data
CHAPTER 6: Public participation
CHAPTER 7: Decision-making tools
CHAPTER 8: Uncertainty, risk & the precautionary principle
CHAPTER 9: Professional ethics & responsibility
CHAPTER 10: Political structures & institutional change
CASE STUDY 1: The Port Hacking tombolo
CASE STUDY 2: Electromagnetic fields & radiation
CASE STUDY 3: The Ok Tedi mine
CASE STUDY 4: Lake Pedder & the Franklin Dam
References
Index