| This study focuses on an environmental conflict resolution process that incorporated a new approach to pollution remediation and prevention within a collaborative problem-solving framework. Such an approach was a non-litigative "public enforcement" effort involving the affected public at the micro level in a joint intervention process with government and industry, impacted by macro level influences.;The research assesses a case in which serious breakdowns in communication, exemplified in troubled relationships among stakeholders, were transformed into more positive cooperative relationships. Collaboration in resolving pressing issues via intensive planning and implementation programs proved successful. The role of an active local press, in respect to social influence and public opinion effects on the process is also examined.;An analysis of this resolution process experience enables us to improve our understanding of whether public participation empowered the community. It also advises us as to which communication mechanisms enhanced the process as well as identifying barriers which acted as constraints. It further explores what influences public opinion brought to bear, taking into account changing risk perceptions.;Theories of public participation in environmental decision-making, collaborative problem-solving and risk communication inform the study. Qualitative research techniques such as in-depth stakeholder interviews, document analysis, and focus group discussion were utilized within an interpretivist framework. Discourse analysis provided further insights into issues of ecological modernization relative to the process of collaborative problem solving and impact of public opinion. |
