Integrating social impact assessment with research: The case of methylmercury in fish in the mobile-alabama river basin

Abstract

This interdisciplinary project in the southeastern United States illustrates the utility of integrating biophysical research with social impact assessment (SIA) to affect public policy. The research concerned environmental factors contributing to mercury getting into the aquatic food chain. Mercury is a heavy metal having toxic effects on humans; eating fish is the main pathway for exposure. Unsafe levels in humans have become a world-wide concern. SIA and public involvement processes framed the initiative and placed the study into the policy arena. Accordingly, officials are evaluating policies and directing additional support to mercury research, including addressing health/social impacts and remedial actions for at-risk groups. © 2003 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.