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SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Although each breakout session was independent, when the
recommendations are viewed as a whole a notable number
of similarities and common themes emerge in the types of
problems identified by the groups as well as in their suggested
solutions. Among these:
- The breadth, depth, and diversity of the scientific specialties
involved in successful environmental decisionmaking make
interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approaches
essential.
- Serious voids in scientific knowledge make resolution of
current environmental problems and prevention of any
future problems extremely difficult. Significant investment
in environmental science and engineering is needed.
- The number of governmental, quasi-governmental, and
non-governmental organizations involved in environmental
decisionmaking increases the likelihood of serious voids
or duplications in necessary programs. Identifying and
coordinating both the missions and efforts undertaken
by these organizations was identified as a top priority.
- There is a crucial need for periodic knowledge assessments
that can provide scientists and policymakers with
reliable and timely “state of the science” reports on
the environment as a whole as well as on particular topics.
Such assessments will require coordinated, multi-agency
environmental tracking, monitoring, and inventory
programs.
A new and separate entity–such as a “Bureau of
Environmental Statistics”–could provide leadership and
information that is both scientifically and politically credible.
- Sound environmental decisionmaking is dependent on an
effective interface between scientists and policymakers
based on reliable and timely “translation” of information and
views between the two communities.
- A national environmental information infrastructure
that will support intensified public information programs
and environmental education and training initiatives
(K-Adult) is fundamental to the success of such “translation”
efforts.
- Science-based education about the environment is required
at every level of society if the general public and their
elected officials are to make informed, effective, and timely
decisions.
- The integration of environmental knowledge, assessments,
research, information, communication, and education
is vital if our society is to achieve a requisite level of
sustainability.
The National Council for Science and the Environment will
communicate these recommendations to Administration and
Congressional policymakers and will work with the various
stakeholders represented at the conference to encourage their
adoption and effective implementation.
The Council also has developed an electronic bulletin
board where all interested individuals can discuss these
recommendations: www.ncseonline.org/policybb.htm
Additional comments and requests for information should
be addressed to Dr. David E. Blockstein, National Council
for Science and the Environment, 1725 K Street NW,
Suite 212,Washington, DC 20006-1401; 202-530-5810;
fax 202-628-4311; David@NCSEonline.org
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