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Ecological Risk Assessment & Endangered Species

An ecological risk assessment evaluates the potential negative impact to animals, plants and the environment from proposed human interference in a natural habitat. The goal of this scientific process, also termed an ecological assessment, is to evaluate both the actual and the predicted changes that will occur through the development or use of the area for disposal of contaminants. Ecological risk assessments address all proposed threats to sensitive and valued habitats and to threatened and endangered plant and animal species. These risks can express as a numerical estimate of damage or take a qualitative approach.

Multidisciplinary Approach
- An ecological risk assessment comprises numerous elements. In the case of contaminants, the assessment will include the identification of the specific chemicals involved and the planning and guidance regarding legal dumping compliance issues. The transportation of these chemicals and their ultimate impact on sensitive environments and the endangered species utilizing these habitats will be evaluated in detail. Ecological assessments include details of monitoring programs that must be established, together with suggestions on how to mitigate damage to the environment.
Recovery Programs
- Ecological risk assessments also present details regarding any ecological recovery programs that need to be implemented. After a remedial program is selected, a monitoring plan is subsequently developed to ascertain if the proposed corrective actions is having the desired effect.
Endangered Species
- Endangered species, either plant or animal, have reached a minimal population level and are in danger of becoming extinct. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates that one in every four mammal species is currently endangered. One-third of the world's amphibians are endangered, as is one in every eight bird species. About 70 percent of all plant species are endangered. Endangered species found in areas where man plans development, or any other activity, are most in danger of disappearing. For this reason, ecological risk assessments are extremely valuable.
Not Designed For Human Risk Implications
- Ecological risk assessments, despite their multidisciplinary approach, concentrate only on the perceived risks to animal and plant communities and to the ecosystem in general, particularly if highly sensitive habitats and endangered species are involved. These assessments do not factor in any risks to the domestic species that may be found in the specific area. Ecological assessments also do not factor in projections regarding the risk to human health. In the case of contaminants, a human health risk assessment will be required to evaluate the threats involved in consuming contaminated species, such as food crops, waterfowl, game or shellfish.

Animals & Science