Issues associated with interjecting science into the ecological risk assessment process under CERCLA
- Jacobs Engineering Group Inc., Lenexa, KS (United States)
Ecological risk assessment for hazardous waste sites under CERCLA must provide answers that contribute to remediation decisionmaking, and must also be conducted within the constraints of schedule and budget. In addition, the process and conclusions of CERCLA ecological risk assessment must satisfy the client, regulatory agencies, and Natural Resource Trustees. Thus, the approach to ecological risk assessment becomes necessarily practical. The essential elements of the ecological risk assessment process must be identified and streamlined, while simultaneously maintaining both scientific integrity and a clear understanding of the inherent limitations and uncertainties. The approach and method for selection of receptors of concern and chemicals of concern, toxicity evaluation, exposure assessment, and risk characterization must incorporate all of these considerations. Useful strategies focus on upfront identification of decisionmaking needs, endpoints, receptors, and chemicals. Significant related issues include planning for ecological risk assessment within the site assessment process, and risk communication. The authors outline the primary theoretical and practical considerations for conducting scientifically defensible ecological risk assessment within the constraints of the CERCLA hazardous waste site assessment process. Specific solutions in approach and method are presented.
- OSTI ID:
- 40147
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9410273--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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