Microbial Ecology
The expert group assessed environmental risk related to microorganisms (mainly bacteria).
The expert group assessed environmental risk and summarised knowledge within microbial ecology, including the effects of climate change and human-induced emissions on microbial communities and pathogens in soil, water, and air. The group also conducted risk assessments of antimicrobial agents and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the environment.
How we assess risk
To assess risk means to evaluate how likely it is that a known hazard will cause harm. In addition, we must assess how serious the harm is.
Independent and transparent
The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM) carries out independent risk assessments for the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) and the Norwegian Environment Agency (Miljødirektoratet).