22 pages., via online journal., Identifying and communicating uncertainty is core to effective environmental
assessment (EA). This study evaluates the extent to which uncertainties are considered
and addressed in Canadian EA practice. We reviewed the environmental protection
plans, follow-up programs, and panel reports (where applicable) of 12 EAs between
1995 and 2012. The types of uncertainties and levels of disclosure varied greatly.
When uncertainties were acknowledged, practitioners adopted five different
approaches to address them. However, uncertainties were never discussed or
addressed in depth. We found a lack of suitable terminology and consistency in how
uncertainties are disclosed, reflecting the need for explicit guidance, and we present
recommendations for improvement. Canadian Environmental Impact Statements are
not as transparent with respect to uncertainties as they should be, and uncertainties in
EA need to be better considered and communicated.
Estes, Stuart (author), Edgar, Leslie D. (author), Johnson, Donald M. (author), Christensen, Karen (author), and Goodwin, H.L. (author)
Format:
Conference paper
Publication Date:
2016-02
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 162 Document Number: D08131
Notes:
Research paper presented in the Agricultural Communications Section, Southern Association of Agricultural Scientists (SAAS), in San Antonio, Texas, February 7-8, 2016. 25 pages.
15 pages., The paper analyses characteristics of vertical relationships of organic supply chains with a specific focus on the processing and retailing sectors. The analysis takes into account different regions of the EU Mediterranean area. Data were collected through interviews using an ad hoc questionnaire. The survey was based on a sample of 306 firms, including processors and retailers. The analysis revealed that a relevant aspect for the processing firms of organic products concerns the guaranteeing of safety and quality levels for the products. The main tools to implement the quality management are based on the adoption of specific production regulations and quality controls. The premium price most frequently applied by processors ranges from 10% to 40% and similar values are revealed for retailers. The diffusion of supply contracts allows the vertical coordination between agriculture and processing firms in the organic supply chains. The main distribution channels for the processing firms are represented by specialised shops in organic products, direct sales and supermarkets.
