Stochastic decision models for RA&M : a brief methodological overview

This research report was prepared in the frames of an ongoing project of the National Institute for Inland Water Management and Waste Water Treatment, aimed at the analysis and management of long-term and/or accidental pollution of groundwater resources in the Netherlands. Our principal objective here is to provide a general conceptual framework for assessing and controlling environmental risks: this methodology is applicable to quantify the short- or long-term (forecasted) changes in the environmental state and to find efficient options for mitigating/remediating unfavourable state changes. This way,the modelling concepts and techniques suggested can be applied to a significant variety of issues (including e.g. solid waste disposal,surface water quality management, flood control, air pollution/acidification abatement etc.). In subsequent research reports we shall apply the introduced tools to a specific groundwater quality problem referred to above.