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PhD Dissertation Defense - Environmental Science & Policy

Nov 21, 2025, 1:00 - 3:00 PM

Virtual on Zoom
Please contact kakerlof@gmu.edu to join by Zoom

PhD Dissertation
Department of Environmental Science and Policy
College of Science
George Mason University 

 

 

Candidate: Bennett Drane
Defense Date and Time: November 21, 2025 at 1:00pm
Defense Location: Virtual on Zoom (contact kakerlof@gmu.edu)
Title: A Holistic Regulatory Framework for Addressing Emerging Contaminants Through a Risk Based-Prioritization Approach 

Dissertation Director: Dr. KL Akerlof  
Committee: Drs. Esther C. Peters, Caroline Cecot, Rosa Gwinn, Mark Velleux

 

 

ABSTRACT  

 

Existing regulations like TSCA and CERCLA, created decades ago, are insufficient for addressing both new and legacy chemicals due to outdated frameworks and weak enforcement. A holistic, risk-based regulatory framework is necessary for emerging contaminants. This study explored developing a unified framework that integrates advanced analytics and a Food-Energy-Water-Climate Nexus approach incorporating risk assessments for ECs such as PFAS improved decision-making and policy prioritization. The data-driven system categorized Nexus concerns, factoring in environmental, social, and historical contexts, providing a broad risk perspective and supporting better management of evolving contaminant issues.

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