Assistance and Resources

[Mark F. Bohne <hilltop@lrbcg.com>]

It is true that there are many who do not understand the technical side of science, especially when it comes to the diverse science of the environment and the things that adversely affect it.

However, we are in a wonderful information age. There are many informative shows on television. Unfortunately, I have never seen the USEPA sponsoring shows that teach and explain issues relating to the environment. Usually, it's a crisis show that informs and educates (maybe negatively.)

Culturally, we are becoming more aware. Fewer people dump motor oil in the ditch in front of the house, and many more are apt to report a tanker truck parked and discharging into a local stream. Few (if any) people have not been touched by a friend or family member with cancer. We are well-aware that some chemical exposures can cause long-term health risks to the individual or their offspring.

We should be using this information age to inform and educate the general public, the same way we have chosen to inform them about the hazards of smoking and AIDS. Use some resources ($$)to make commercial spots about chemical hazards and pollution hazards past and present.

Create regional seminars for interested people to attend. Use clean-up sites for video presentations to inform the public of the steps to remediation and why it has to be done. (Boast about the successes of SuperFund.)

The "sales pitch" would help the public to understand the political need to increase spending for the environment and give them a foundation for future educational opportunities.

How do you eat an elephant . . . . one bite at a time.