Reflections and recommendations

Abstract

This aim of this chapter is to develop a vision of how the toxicity debate, and the chlorine and PVC debates in particular, can be taken a step further. This implies more than simply giving recommendations. In this chapter I will reflect on my conclusions, give an in-depth analysis of their consequences, and in this way, possibly provide a view of how to deal with the frame conflict concerning toxicity. This chapter therefore covers the following five topics:

• 1. a reflection on the crucial differences between the most extreme frames;

• 2. recommendations on how to deal with toxicity problems in general;

• 3. recommendations on how to deal with chlorine and PVC;

• 4. recommendations for enhancing the robustness of knowledge claims generated by environmental evaluation tools;

• 5. recommendations for improving the decision making process in controversies plagued by differences in framing.

To put the point empaihically: (...) Competition is recognised as healthy for the quality of products. Similarly (...) opposition is healthy for the quality of the technology.

Arie Rip, Thomas J. Misa and Johan Schot (1995), Managing Technology in Society. The Approach of Constructive Technology Assessment. Pinter Publishers, LondonlNew York, p. 350