Key Points

• Risk communication should be based on accurate scientific data not gut feelings
• Alliance of scientists from natural and social sciences, Link to in house assessors and managers
• Take stock of public perception, motivations, expectations and concerns.
• State of the art risk communication:
  1. Frequent dialogues between regulators, industry , media and key politicians
  2. Confrontations between the key parties will destroy public trust and could be
     amplified by the media
  3. Lawyers tend to inject more disputes. Only involve them when absolutely
     necessary
  4. Involve highly trusted individuals
  5. NGOs can shape policy outcomes
  6. The opinion of local policy makers is important
  7. Taking responsibility is important