Sound Science, Junk Policy: Environmental Health Science and the Decision-Making Process

by Morrone, Michele

• ISBN13: 9780865693081
• ISBN10: 0865693080
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2002-06-30
• Publisher: Greenwood Pub Group

Summary

Contemporary critics often argue that environmental policy problems are rooted in "junk" science. Yet Morrone and Lohner assert that many cases are based on sound science that is misinterpreted, which leads to questionable policy decisions. Revealing the way science is used in the environmental decision-making process, the authors illustrate how policies can go awry. Their combined experience in the public and private sectors is buttressed by a series of case studies, including: BLAir pollutionBLSolid and hazardous waste managementBLFood protectionBLVectors and their diseasesBLDrinking water safety This provocative look at environmental policymaking shows the importance of correctly interpreting science, and examines the full implications of using science as the major criterion in the decision-making process.

Author Biography

MICHELE MORRONE is Assistant Professor of Environmental Health at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.TIMOTHY W. LOHNER is a senior environmental specialist with American Electric Power.

Table of Contents

Preface and Acknowledgements	vii
Introduction	ix
What Is Science?	1	(14)
Science and Environmental Policy	15	(12)
Science and Politics	27	(14)
Science and Air Quality	41	(30)
Science and Waste Management	71	(14)
Science and Food Safety	85	(16)
Science and Vectors	101	(16)
Science and Drinking Water	117	(18)
What If...?	135	(12)
Innovative Policy Approaches	147	(8)
Notes	155	(30)
Additional Recommended Reading	185	(2)
Index	187