Of price and prejudice: the importance of being earnest about environmental impact statements

Journal Article · Tue Dec 01 04:00:00 EST 1981 · Geology; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1130/0091-7613(1981)9<590:OPAPTI>2.0.CO;2· OSTI ID:5597885

Lucchitta, I ^[1]; Schleicher, D; Cheney, P

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1. Geological Survey, Flagstaff, AZ

Environmental impact statements (EIS's) stem from the realization that the old open system of boundless resources and opportunities has been replaced by a closed system in which nothing can be acquired without our paying a price. EIS's are intended to identify (and perhaps minimize) that price, and thus to provide the information required to decide wisely whether the purchase is worth the price. Although EIS's are of great importance to our society, we tend to view them with aversion and prejudice. We must change that view, by responding to the challenge of the EIS and by keeping its purpose sharply in focus. We must apply the best talents available and insist on commensurate rewards. To do less is to shrink from our responsibilities as scientist-citizens in today's closed-system world.

• OSTI ID: 5597885
• Journal Information: Geology; (United States), Journal Name: Geology; (United States) Vol. 9:12; ISSN GLGYB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290300* -- Energy Planning &amp; Policy-- Environment
Health
&amp; Safety
COST
DOCUMENT TYPES
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENTS
RECOMMENDATIONS
REVIEWS