Ecologists and environmental scientists can play valuable roles as science advisors in collaborative projects with communities resolving environmental justice issues. Many environmental and human rights advocacy organizations have little access to accurate and current scientific information pertinent to their goals and outcomes. The American Association for the Advancement of Science oversees the On-Call Scientist program which builds these types of collaborations between scientists and communities. Scientists are matched with community partners based on expertise and the specific needs of partners. Besides providing scientific advice, scientists play a role in educating the partners and in some instances help the partners advocate for environmental justice and human rights issues. Examples of the nuances of scientists working in this manner with community leaders are demonstrated in two case studies: the Flint Michigan water crisis and the tanneries pollution situation in Bangladesh.
Results/Conclusions
Each case study had its own unique successes and shortfalls as to the helpfulness of having scientists work with community partners. In some cases, community members or agencies have a great distrust for scientists and scientific data. Plus, the limitations of science and contrary data often conflicts with the desires of the community. In addition, scientists may not have all of the skills to assist with community education and advocacy. In spite of any hindrances, there are measurable benefit to having scientists volunteer in these types of partnerships.