Framework for ecological risk

EPA (1998) Framework for Ecological Risk Assessment. 63 FR93. EPA/630/R-95/002F. 

Stahl RG Jr (2001) Introduction and background to the development of a framework for ecological risk management. In Ralph G, Stahl I et al (eds) Risk management ecological risk-based decision-making. SETAC Technical Publications Series, Pensacola, FL... 

A number of EIA theorists believe in incorporating formal RA methods into EIA as a way to cope with uncertainties, especially in impact prediction where a formal framework for ecological risk assessment (EcoRA) is already developed. It includes three generic phases problem formulation, analysis, and risk characterization followed by risk management. The analysis phase includes an exposure assessment and an ecological effects assessment (see, e.g., US EPA (1998)). 

US Environmental Protection Agency. Framework for ecological risk assessment. Washington, DC Risk Assessment Forum, USEPA, 1992. EPA/630/R-92/001. 

FIGURE 1.1 An illustration of the role of extrapolation in frameworks for ecological risk assessment used either for setting criteria or for assessing risks from existing exposures. 

The remainder of this section details the potential application of multivariate methods in the selection of endpoints and in the evaluation of exposure and effects of stressors in ecosystems. Particular reference is made to the application of these methods to the current framework for ecological risk assessment. Examples of the use of multivariate methods in detecting effects and in selecting important measurement variables are covered using both field surveys and multispecies toxicity tests. 

Schematic of the framework for ecological risk assessment (U.S. EPA1992). Especially important is the interaction between exposure and hazard and the inclusion of a data acquisition, verification, and monitoring component. Multivariate analyses will have a major impact on the selection or assessment and measurement endpoints and will play a major role in the data acquisition, verification, and monitoring phase.

What two components have been incorporated into the analysis component in the new framework for ecological risk assessment (as opposed to their separation in traditional risk assessment) ... 

The following document outlines the original U.S. EPA document presenting a framework for ecological risk assessment that was published in 1992. This framework is the basis of the introduction to ecological risk assessment in Chapter 12 and of many other frameworks for ecological risk assessment around the world. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (in press — a). Peer Review Workshop Report on a Framework for Ecological Risk Assessment. EPA/625/3-91/022, Risk Assessment Forum, Washington, D.C. 

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