ROLE OF DEDUCTIVE SCIENCE IN EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVES IN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

摘要

As in all scientific-based decision-making, the methodologies used in environmental assessment must be as objective as possible. Applying hypothetico-deductive(h-d) scientific procedures to information used in environmental evaluation may contribute to the objectivity. This process involves identification of development site or plan alternatives which are tested by attempting to falsify each one on the basis of equivalent criteria and data. The h-d process has applications in watershed planning, solid waste management site selection and forest management.