The C8 Science Panel has hired a professional risk communicator from Boston to help them translate the results of the C8 Health Project for release to the public. But, some questions have been raised about his background, which includes work for a research center funded in part by DuPont.

 

The panel’s new hire, David Ropeik, was the director of risk communication for the Harvard Center for Risk Analysis until 2005. The industry and government funded entity has been criticized by community groups for its business-friendly policies.

 

A DuPont official sits on the center’s advisory board. Both DuPont and the 3M Company provide substantial funding to the center.

 

Ropeik acknowledges criticism about the center. He said the business funding was a frequent argument from people who disagreed with the science, but he claims that had nothing to do with his work. He said there exists a perception that risk communication is about a way to spin information and fool people, but he insists that is not the goal.

 

Dr. Kyle Steenland, one of three epidemiologists on the panel, said he was not aware of the potential conflicts involving DuPont, but explained that the scientists on the panel will be responsible for the content released, not Ropeik whose job is solely to advise.

 

Last month, plaintiffs’ attorneys in the case filed a claim against DuPont for trying to interfere in the work of the science panel. That matter is set for a hearing in Wood County Circuit Court on November 13.

 

In a related matter, yesterday DuPont officials announced that the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency had approved plans for the construction of the filtration plant for the Little Hocking Water Association, the most contaminated system known to exist.