The New E&T&C Certification, a Methodology to Rate Engagement, Transparency, and Communication in Water Resource Recovery Facilities: When the Odor Unit is Not Enough

There is a need for a framework to mainstream citizen engagement, increase Transparency and boost Communication channels in case of repeated episodes of impact in neighboring communities. When there is a conflict, most crisis communication experts agree that Engagement, Transparency, and Communication (E&T&C) are key to maintaining or regaining the neighbors' trust. The Volkswagen emissions scandal is a recent case demonstrating the negative outcome of not having an Engagement, 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 Water Resource Recovery Facilities 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 a Water Resource Recovery Facility's Transparency, Communication, and Participation.