Fellow Story
Fulweiler calls for comprehensive nutrient pollution policy
“Primum non nocere”, or “first, do no harm”, is one of the central ethical principles taught to medical students, and one that scientists and policy makers alike should embrace. In this context, to do no harm, we argue that a systems-wide, holistic approach to N and P control is essential. When develop- ing nutrient criteria for a given river or estuary, it is imperative for policy makers to remember that actions in one watershed will affect a neighboring or downstream ecosystem. Since the passage of the Clean Water Act 40 years ago, the road to comprehensive nutrient pollution policy has been slow and sporadic. Yet the need for action has never been greater, and the impact that scientists can make on policy should not be underestimated.
