Stakeholder Participation in Investigating the Health Impacts from Coal-Fired Power Generating Stations in Alberta, Canada

Developing an effective stakeholder participation process and communication dialogue continues to be a challenge in dealing with risk issues, particularly those in which the risk is uncertain and people are fearful about the potential impacts. The complex public stakeholder relations and risk communication issues associated with investigating the potential human health effects associated with exposure to the emissions of coal-fired power generating stations are discussed. Residents in the area around Lake Wabamun (west of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada) have raised concerns about potential health impacts from four nearby coal-fired power generating stations. The Wabamun and Area Community Exposure and Health Effects Assessment Programme (WACEHEAP) was developed to look specifically at what people are being exposed to in this area as well as some of the health effects from these exposures. Public stakeholders to this process included the general public, community interest groups and the Paul First Nation. Two surveys were conducted to better understand community concerns, communication and information needs, and desire for involvement. Consultations were also held with the Paul First Nation. The results provided important insights into the risk perspectives of these groups, including communication needs and desired means of participating in the risk assessment process.