Using an Engaging Approach to Products to Help Create Long-Term Credibility

by Genevieve McNeill, Science Applications Intl Corp, Las Vegas, United States,
Erin Larkin, Science Applications Intl Corp, Las Vegas, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: High Level Radioactive Waste Management 1993

Abstract:

A long-term, thorough and engaging public information products plan is essential for supporting interaction between Nevadans and the scientists and staff on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Yucca Mountain Site Characterization Project (YMP). As members of the Institutional and External Affairs office on the YMP in Nevada, our focus is to create successful products for a Nevada audience, in accordance with DOE regulations. Our product plan is broad, but has the same theoretical foundation whether we are developing a new fact sheet or working with a scientist to help him or her communicate effectively. Our goals are to: create products that help build long-term credibility; communicate honestly about risk; engage the public in meaningful, effective ways; be receptive to hearing Nevadans' concerns and questions; respond in ways that indicate that the public has been heard and respected; and to keep away from the 'us' versus 'them' orientation, distinguishing our communication approach from others. Explanations of our rationale, products plan, and goals and techniques for achieving them are stated, and related problems follow.

Subject Headings: Radioactive wastes | Public information programs | Public policy | Public health and safety | Project management | Federal government | Waste sites

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