Background paper #3: Give the public and workers the full right-to-know and participate
Since this class, I've learned about so many environmental hazards and issues that I didn't know before. We are all exposed to toxic chemicals in our daily lives that we are not aware of. Our "right-to-know" in this paper refers to the routine, systematic, public reporting of chemicals rather than access to government documents. A few examples listed in the paper include: lead paint right-to-know, in which sellers/landlords must let buyers/renters know about known lead paint hazards. Drinking water right-to-know ensures water utilities provide consumer confidence reports included in water bills to customers.
Right to participate is the opportunities to be involved in decisions that affect people's health, safety, and environment. For example, under OSHA, workers have the right to request a workplace inspection and participate in the inspection process. Right to participate is just as important as right-to-know because it is being engaged and involved in decision making, not only being informed about the hazards.
Do you think having CCRs in water bills will be effective? I am willing to bet that people just look at the dollar amount they owe, write their check (or log onto the website) and just pay it then throw it away. Perhaps the way its enclosed, say right in front with big bold letters will be effective? Another concern of mine is people KNOWING they have a right-to-know.
ReplyDeleteI chose to read about a "No Data, No Market" proposal, which ties into this very nicely. I think we all have a right to know what's in our products, and the public should be more involved in/educated about the chemicals going into their products.
ReplyDelete