Environmental equity and public participation

Authors

Greg Hampton, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

56171

Publication Details

Hampton, G. (1999). Environmental equity and public participation. Policy Sciences: an international journal devoted to the improvement of policy making, 32 (2), 163-174.

Abstract

The principles and practice of public participation can serve to promote environmental equity for disadvantaged social groups. The e¡ectiveness of such practice in preventing or reducing environmental inequity depends upon the use of participation methodology which caters to the cultural and social needs of such groups. These methods need to provide appropriate forms of information, suitable venues for participation, and access to expertise and education which enable the public to understand policy issues and formulate preferences. The extent to which public preferences are incorporated in policy decisions determines the worth of public participation programs in promoting environmental equity.