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Promoting transparency of long-term environmental decisions: the Hanford Decision Mapping System pilot project
Christina H Drew1, Timothy L Nyerges, Thomas M Leschine
1Institute for Risk Analysis and Risk Communication, University of Washington, Box 354695, Seattle, WA 98105, USA. cdrew@u.washington.edu
Summary
Developing transparent online systems enhances nuclear waste cleanup dialogue. Integrating information and using participatory design fosters greater public engagement in decision-making processes.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Information Science
- Risk Communication
Background:
- Nuclear waste cleanup presents complex challenges requiring scientific analysis and stakeholder dialogue.
- Effective communication is crucial for informed public participation in environmental decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an online information system enhancing transparency for nuclear waste cleanup at the Hanford Site.
- To support analytic-deliberative dialogue by integrating and presenting complex cleanup information.
Main Methods:
- A transparency framework guided system development.
- Stakeholder engagement identified information needs and guided organization/presentation.
- Five information structures were developed: Decision Maps, Background Information, Decision Paths, Geographic Library, and Discussion Forum.
Main Results:
- The Decision Mapping System (DMS) pilot integrated Hanford cleanup information, improving transparency.
- Participatory design contributed to the system's perceived success.
- Multiple information structures were necessary to manage complex data.
Conclusions:
- Transparency is vital for effective long-term nuclear waste management.
- Participatory design is key to successful information systems for public engagement.
- Improved data integration is needed to support decision-making in complex environmental contexts.