Author(s): Bastien Affeltranger
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Sedimentation; Hazards; Risk; Communication; Strategy; Controversy; Stakeholders; Lobbying
Abstract: Hazards stemming from sedimentation in reservoirs are a technical challenge for hydroproject designers and confront water management authorities with a potential political threat in terms of stakeholders' fear, discontent or distrust. Technical credibility and political legitimacy are inter-related. Lacking information thus fuels socio-techical controversy and conflicting discourses. This paper suggests how lessons learned from risk communication can be useful to design a communication strategy on sedimentation issues. It is concluded that this approach can alleviate lobbying situations and help win social support to reservoirs and other hydroprojects.
Year: 2004