Define the term "environmental risk assessment."

The term "environmental risk assessment" refers to a systematic process designed to evaluate the potential adverse effects that a particular action, project, or decision may have on the environment. This process involves identifying hazards, analyzing the exposure to those hazards, and assessing the associated risks. By using this structured approach, stakeholders can make informed decisions regarding the environmental impacts of their activities, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to mitigate risks.

This systematic evaluation is crucial for both regulatory compliance and for protecting the environment and public health. It is typically used in various fields such as environmental science, public health, and industrial operations. The focus is on understanding how particular activities may lead to harmful effects on ecosystems, wildlife, and human populations.

In contrast, options like enhancing public awareness or calculating financial risk do not capture the essence of what an environmental risk assessment entails, as they focus on communication or economic factors rather than the comprehensive analysis of environmental impacts. Similarly, standard procedures for waste disposal are important but are not synonymous with risk assessment; they may be a part of the overall management of environmental issues but do not encompass the full evaluative process that characterizes an environmental risk assessment.