An overview of risk-benefit analysis in environmental law

Journal Article · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1981 · Environ. Prof.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6791777

Trauberman, J

This paper presents an overview of some of the issues and problems in using risk-benefit and cost-benefit analysis in environmental decision making.It addresses the difficulty in both assessing public health and environmental risks, and balancing those risks against actual and perceived economic benefits. The paper notes the prevalence of ''unreasonable risk'' as a putative guide to action in a number of statutory and common law constructs. The paper indicates that reliance on the concept of ''reasonableness'' does not resolve the fundamental societal disagreement over balancing risks and benefits. Therefore, the article suggests that efforts should be made to reduce the subjective nature of administrative and judicial decision making involving public health and environmental risks.

• Research Organization: Environmental Law Inst., Washington, DC
• OSTI ID: 6791777
• Journal Information: Environ. Prof.; (United States), Journal Name: Environ. Prof.; (United States) Vol. 3:3-4; ISSN EPROD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290300* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Environment
Health
& Safety
COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
DECISION MAKING
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
LAWS
PUBLIC HEALTH
RISK ASSESSMENT