Public perceptions and scientific uncertainty: The management of risky decisions

As part of an overall program of managing uncertainty in environmental decision making, the Ministry of the Environment of The Netherlands commissioned Environmental Resources Limited (ERL), based in London, to undertake a detailed study of highly publicized but scientifically controversial decisions. The objective was to determine how such decisions may be better managed. Through the examination of 18 selected cases. ERL investigators developed a clear profile of what they termed risky decisions, and identified determining their acceptability as government policies. Combining lessons from the case studies with a detailed survey of management approaches and decision-making techniques, ERL devised a strategy for handling risky decisions more effectively. The Dutch government is now planning a series of risky decision workshops for senior officials, scientists, and policy advisors.