The Role of Environmental Scientists in Public Policy: A Lesson From Georges Bank

Scientists are often asked to contribute, either formally or informally, to discussions leading to environmental policy decisions which require combining scientific information with the values and preferences of those affected by the policy. Recently we prepared a review of the environmental consequ...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Marine pollution bulletin 2000-09, Vol.40 (9), p.727-730
Main Authors: Shaw, D.G, Farrington, J.W, Connor, M.S, Tripp, B.W, Schubel, J.R
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Earth sciences
Earth, ocean, space
Engineering and environment geology. Geothermics
Exact sciences and technology
Marine
Natural water pollution
Pollution
Pollution, environment geology
Seawaters, estuaries
Water treatment and pollution
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Summary:Scientists are often asked to contribute, either formally or informally, to discussions leading to environmental policy decisions which require combining scientific information with the values and preferences of those affected by the policy. Recently we prepared a review of the environmental consequences of petroleum exploration and development at Georges Bank. As a result, the role of science in environmental decision making was challenged. We think that environmental scientists should provide accurate, balanced scientific findings and point out the implications of sustaining values and uses of the environment in question. Policy makers and those helping to shape environmental decisions need to clearly understand the boundaries of science. Scientists and their information should only be part of the policy making process. Values and preferences, whether they be economic, social or otherwise, must also be considered.
ISSN:0025-326X
1879-3363
DOI:10.1016/S0025-326X(00)00052-7