How to Communicate MTBE Issues

Communicating environmental and safety issues to the public, community and others involves handling complex information in a way which is easily understandable. One issue, the use of MTBE in gasoline, is a topic which needs to be addressed in areas where the use of the gasoline enhancing agent is common. Using a common sense approach to disseminating the information and conveying key facts is essential in getting other to understand the issue.

Instructions

• 1

  Organize a team of people to help in the coordination of the information. MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is a chemical additive for gasoline. Include scientists and chemists in your key group to help explain the scientific side of the issue.

• 2

  Draft a document explaining what MTBE is and use easy to understand language. For example, avoid using technical jargon and simply state the addition of MTBE to gasoline allows for oxygenation of the gasoline, which in turn allows the gasoline to burn cleaner and thus cause less damage to the ozone and environment.

• 3

  State the concerns surrounding MTBE. Know that those interested in learning more about MTBE want to know what the dangers associated with use are. List the major negatives associated with MTBE usage and do not attempt to hide any data which can be easily located. For example, MTBE can leak from underground storage containers and directly impact and contaminate groundwater. State this as a negative issue associated with MTBE, as others can find out this information. Clearly note the difference between municipal water supplies and private underground wells. Know that explaining the difference in how both types of water supplies can become contaminated will alleviate fears and uncertainty for the majority of people as public water supplies impact more people in total.

• 4

  Explain the precautionary measures in place to stave off problems associated with MTBE. Stick to factors impacting the majority of people, such as concerns over water contamination. Explain the safeguards used to prevent water contamination and explain the ways in which the MTBE situation is monitored.

• 5

  Guide others to places or organizations where additional, more in-depth information regarding MTBE can be located. Offer a link or page on your website or social media page for more detailed information. Expand only on the basic information initially relayed to further explain the use and issues of MTBE usage.