Those involved in solids management provide a vital public service in which the protection of the environment and public health are paramount. This management involves proactive public outreach and involvement with a focus on effective communications about risks and benefits.
Public engagement is needed whenever a “significant, noticeable change in solids management is planned. It is especially important if any of the following are involved:
- Construction
- Change of land use
- New and visible activities
- Public funding, or
- Solids management outside of the treatment facility.
The right time to start public outreach and involvement is as the project concept is being developed and during initial project planning, even before formal design begins.” (Solids Process Design and Management, WEF WERF U.S. EPA, 2012, p. 35-36)