Toward proactive environmental risk communication: A look a Alberta's petroleum industry

This Master's Degree Project examines both risk communication and environmental management to identify ways to improve the internal management of environmental risk communication. This was investigated through a literature review, key informant interviews and the development of a theoretical framework. The literature review identifies the principles and practices of effective risk communication, and the organizational factors of companies proactive in environmental management. Insights into motivating factors, barriers and initiatives in risk communication were obtained through interviews. The theoretical framework describes internal organizational elements that can support and enhance risk communication. The framework comprises 14 key elements within four main components: senior management support and commitment; organizational integration; environmental management tools and review and improvement.;It is recommended that companies internalize the 14 organizational elements to increase the effectiveness of external communication with local communities. The integration of environmental risk communication with environmental management systems is suggested as a means of providing a stronger link between communication about environmental risks and their management. It is further recommended that industry associations take a stronger role in ensuring that member companies are communicating effectively with communities affected by their operations.