Constraints on Health Risk Assessment in the Developing World: A Case Study in Thailand.

摘要

Rapid industrialization in the developing countries of the Pacific Basin has been accompanied by a dramatic increase in the formulation, use, and disposal of hazardous materials and residuals. Although there are no comprehensive set of data it is estimated that more than 270 million metric tons of hazardous wastes are generated each year in this region. The disposal of hazardous waste has become a serious problem for many cities in the developing world and great concern is being expressed about the management and disposal of these materials. The capacity to properly dispose of these materials is generally inadequate and the need to provide more capacity is growing. The choice of the best practicable methodology depends on many factors, including technical availability, waste characteristics, desired safety factors, and cost. In addition, many of the high-technology solutions may be inappropriate for developing countries because of high capital costs and the difficulty in maintaining complex industrial plants. Notwithstanding the immediate need for additional capacity, siting of hazardous waste management facilities in all regions of the world has become an increasingly difficult task. Although much of the scientific community believes the technology exists to site safe and cost-effective facilities, public apprehension often overrides the technical decision. In the United States and Europe there are numerous examples of well-planned facilities failing to be sited because of public opposition. The siting problem has become as much a socio-political issue as a technical issue. Thus, successful siting must be based on an adequate resolution of science and technology questions as well as the sociological considerations related to winning public acceptance. 11 refs., 2 figs., 4 tabs.