Comparing Environmental Risks:

''Full of the wisdom and experience of those who have thought a lot about how to set environmental priorities based on the magnitude of the risk. Its editor, Terry Davies, is quite simply the most insightful and practical authority on risk assessment I know.''-William K. Reilly, former administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency The budgetary squeeze of the 1990s has made it obvious that the government cannot address every possible environmental problem. Comparative risk assessment (CRA) is increasingly advanced as the means for setting realistic priorities. RFF's Center for Risk Management commissioned background papers from leading experts on CRA for a meeting with federal regulatory officials. Comparing Environmental Risks presents the revised papers of this workshop. Representing the state of the art on programmatic CRA, its methodological analyses and practical recommendations will be invaluable to government officials, independent analysts, and anyone studying environmental policy. ''Those new to the field of comparative risk analysis will undoubtedly benefit by this short text, as will those familiar with only a few of the many facets of this rapidly evolving tool.'' Comparative Risk Bulletin ''Davies and his colleagues present the reader with a wealth of insights into risk concepts and the multiplicity of choices facing analysts and others who seek to compare environmental risks meaningfully and fairly. The practical advice in this distinctive volume should help greatly to increase risk-assessment literacy among policy analysts, policymakers, and citizens at every level of government.''Michael E. Kraft, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay ''This is must reading for those who are concerned about the future course of environmental policy.''--Marc Landy, Boston College ''Both individuals and institutions act according to their perceptions of their own interestsperceptions shaped by values and understanding. They constantly weigh options and compare risks. This volume brings together a thoughtful collection of essays about how to structure, inform and manage the comparison of risks in the environmental policy process. It is a useful, provocative and commendable book.''--Jonathan Lash, President, World Resources Institute ''Building on objective analysis of the history of comparative risk, this book will become an indispensable and recognized template for future debate and policy development.''--James M. Strock, California Secretary for Environmental Protection