E&T&C Certification, new Protocol to Rate Engagement, Transparency and Communication in Industrial Activities. When the Odour Unit is not Enough

Abstract

There is a need for a framework to mainstream citizen engagement, increase Transparency and boost Communication channels in case of repeated impact episodes in neighbouring communities. When there is a conflict, most crisis communication experts agree that Engagement Transparency and Communication (E&T&C) are vital to maintaining or regaining the neighbours' trust. The Volkswagen emissions scandal is a recent case demonstrating the negative outcome of not having a participation, transparency and communication policy.
To promote a change in the traditional industrial opaque thinking paradigm, we have created the first E&T&C Certification. This Certification is designed to assess the performance of industrial plants concerning their relationship with communities nearby, making it the first Certification of its kind.
A project's performance is verified through "third-party" audits by an independent auditor, depending on the degree of depth of analysis. This third-party Certification guarantees independence and impartiality in the process. The ultimate goal is to score the degree of an industrial plant's Transparency, Communication and Participation.