Environmental professionals and public participation

An entire industry has developed in Canada that prepares environmental risk assessments and evaluations of impacts to wildlife and other species, water quality, recreational values, the costs and mechanisms of remediation of contaminated sites and so on.

There are growing problems with the quality of environmental evaluations as this industry matures.  Allegations of manipulation of scientists have become commonplace in this area.  True standards of conduct are becoming elusive in some areas of environmental evaluation.

As a lawyer, I could never imagine putting a “limitation of liability” stamp on my professional opinion, in essence stating that I am not willing to accept responsibility for the accuracy or professionalism of my work.  Sadly, this has become standard among environmental professionals.

Concerns about the quality of environmental information relied upon to issue permits or approve environmental assessments are widespread enough that it may be difficult for the public to rely on these professional opinions.  Since good science is the cornerstone of effective environmental management, the significance of this problem cannot be overstated.

Read “Environmental professionals and public participation” on the ELC blog.

ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENTAL LAW CENTRE:

The Environmental Law Centre (ELC) has been seeking strong and effective environmental laws since it was founded in 1982. The ELC is dedicated to providing credible, comprehensive and objective legal information regarding natural resources, energy and environmental law, policy and regulation in Alberta. The ELC’s mission is to educate and champion for strong laws and rights so all Albertans can enjoy clean water, clean air and a healthy environment. Our vision is a society where laws secure an environment that sustains current and future generations.

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