Perceptions about the use of Behavioral (Eco)Toxicology to protect human health and the environment.

Abstract

The One Health concept strongly brings into focus the important connections for human and ecosystem health. However, the incorporation of behaviour method guidelines in risk assessment and regulation/policy is not equal between human and ecological disciplines. A survey was conducted on the perceptions and role of behavioural (eco)toxicology in the protection of the human and ecosystem health. Those surveyed include scientists working in the field of environmental toxicology and behavioural ecology, representing industry, government, non-government organizations and academia/research centres. The respondents (n = 166) agreed that contaminants can (97%) and are (77%) impacting wildlife, and can (84%) and are (62%) impacting humans. Overall respondents believed behavioural experiments to be repeatable (60%), reliable (61%) and relevant (84%), although those not studying behaviour (43%) were more cautious in their answers. Respondents were more likely to be neutral when asked whether behavioural endpoints are more sensitive (43%) but agreed (80%) that they provide important alternative information to standard endpoints. The largest group disagreed (42%) with the statement that behavioural endpoints are currently used in risk assessment but agreed they were essential (55%). The majority of respondents disagreed (63%) that we understood the risks of contaminants to human and ecosystem health, but agreed (68%) that regulatory authorities should consider behavioural endpoints. When comparing answers between sectors (Academia, Government or Industry), industry scientists were more likely to be negative or neutral in their responses to the application of behavioural toxicology. We discuss how these data could be used to further support our understanding and confidence in the effects of contaminants on human and ecosystem health.