ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of a risk-based approach to environmental management and examples of how industry integrates information about risk with public perceptions and values in making management decisions. A scientifically sound risk assessment is essential for good and responsible decision making by industry and others. An industry example of risk-based priority setting comes from the Chemical Manufacturers Association’s Responsible Care® Pollution Prevention Code. Risk assessment work at the beginning of a project is ideal, and allows a focus on identifying opportunities for changes and improvements, along with a possible comparison of alternate approaches, before a project is far along in development. The public must be involved and/or considered in the risk assessment and management processes. For example, the philosophy of Procter & Gamble Company includes that its consumer products will be perceived as being safe by consumers and others.
