Partnerships for Risk Communications: Environmental, Agricultural and Food Issues

Abstract

International trade expansion brings economic benefits but increases concerns about invasion of non-native species of plants, insects and microbes. The spread of diseases such as BSE and FMD can affect animals and humans and the threat of bio-terrorism affecting the environment, agriculture and food supplies are significant concerns. The risk of major economic damage that occurs from outbreaks can be reduced through border inspections, prevention and mitigation strategies, education and international agreements. Communication partnerships can play an important role in improving understanding of everyone’s role and responsibility in preventing contamination of the environment, agriculture and food supply.