A Framework for Tool Selection and Use in Integrated Assessment for Sustainable Development

Integrated assessment is rapidly spreading as a practice at different levels of governance. However, the choice of using certain tools in an assessment is often not well founded. In this paper, Wouter de Ridder, John Turnpenny, Måns Nilsson and Anneke von Raggamby present a framework that scientifically underpins the role of, and thus choice of, tools within an integrated assessment.

The framework identifies four phases in an integrated assessment, which are derived from the complementaries between various forms of integrated assessment. Each phase corresponds with a certain task, as for example identifying the problem that should be regulated by the subject of the assessment. Seven types of tools with similar characteristics are matched to those tasks. The tool framework is a theoretical construct, developed whilst keeping in mind perceptions and suggestions from eventual users. It is a first step in the development of an overarching framework for finding appropriate tools for different tasks in an assessment, and justifying the use of those tools.

The paper is published in the Journal of Environmental Assessment Policy and Management, Volume 9, No. 4.