Risk analysis is the systematic evaluation of hazards and their possible effects.
Views on the potential uses of risk analysis differ. Although, most experts and policy-makers agree that risk analysis is a valuable tool to inform decision makers, they disagree about the extent to which risk estimates are biased and should be allowed to influence public policies to protect health and the environment. It identifies constraints on flexible decision-making and some implications of trying to overcome them. The next two CRS Reports are examples of current environmental issues. MTBE is credited with producing marked reductions in emissions of carbon monoxide and of the volatile organic compounds that react with other pollutants to produce smog.