Risk communication strategies for emerging contaminants

Phillips, Jenny

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/109886 Copy

Description

Title

Risk communication strategies for emerging contaminants

Author(s)

Phillips, Jenny

Issue Date

2021-04-28

Keyword(s)

emerging contaminants

Abstract

Presented by: Jenny Phillips – Director or Risk Assessment and Toxicology, VP at TRC, jkphillips@trccompanies.com Abstract: Communications regarding emerging contaminants add several challenges to an already challenging practice. The goal of risk communication is to simply and clearly present information to interested parties regarding the potential for adverse risk and potential exposures, and also to listen. The objective of this presentation is to discuss the common challenges in communicating risk effectively and provide some suggestions which can create opportunity to build trust and set a path forward of cooperation. Through use of some key tools, risk communication and its acceptance by the public and stakeholders can be greatly improved. Key tools for discussion include: 1) determination of key messages 2) relationship building to earn and gain trust 3) do the work, understand the target audiences and 4) be open about what you know and what you don’t know. With emerging contaminants the technical community often doesn’t have all the answers, be clear with how new information will be communicated. Uncertainties associated with the risk and toxicity of emerging contaminants make preparation and thoughtful delivery of clear messages and responses even more critical. In this presentation, the basic tools of risk communication will be presented, with the focus on adjustments necessary when discussing emerging contaminants. Biography: Jenny Phillips is the TRC leader for the Risk Assessment practice and the Emerging Contaminant team at TRC. Risk assessment expertise includes protective of site ecological and human receptors; negotiation of site closure issues and working with regulatory, stake holder and community groups. Emerging Contaminants add additional challenges as the knowledge of toxicity often rapidly changes, this assessment is a focal point of Ms. Phillips technical efforts. Jenny has a MS in Environmental Health/ Toxicology and is a DABT.

Series/Report Name or Number

2021 Emerging Contaminants in the Environment Conference (ECEC21)

Type of Resource

• text
• still image

Language

en

Permalink

• http://hdl.handle.net/2142/109886
• https://youtu.be/-0TuUUYExUs

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