A conceptualisation framework for building consensus on environmental sensitivity

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecology
• Risk Assessment

Background:

• Environmental impact assessments require understanding receptor sensitivity to stressors.
• Current methods for assessing sensitivity include quality status, statutory protection, and inherent risk.
• Subjective value judgments can supplement objective measures when other considerations are not pertinent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a harmonized conceptual framework for assessing environmental receptor sensitivity.
• To facilitate comparative and combined analysis of diverse environmental criteria.
• To increase stakeholder consensus and objectivity in baseline environmental assessments.

Main Methods:

• A stakeholder consultation process was employed to harmonize degrees of sensitivity.
• Environmental criteria were evaluated based on quality status, statutory protection, and inherent risk.
• Knowledge-based values were prioritized over existing statutory measures where applicable.

Main Results:

• Broad agreement was achieved on relative sensitivity values for most environmental criteria.
• Consensus was more readily attained for themes like biodiversity, water, and cultural heritage compared to population and soils.
• The developed conceptual framework demonstrated its utility in guiding stakeholder consensus.

Conclusions:

• The harmonized framework enhances objectivity in baseline environmental assessments.
• Agreed relative sensitivities provide a foundation for improved impact significance characterization.
• This approach contributes to a stronger evidence base for environmental decision-making.