How does ecological risk assessment differ from human health risk assessment?

Ecological risk assessment is distinct in that it specifically examines the potential effects of environmental hazards on ecosystems and wildlife, as opposed to solely considering human health impacts. This approach evaluates the interactions between various environmental stressors, such as chemicals and physical disturbances, and their consequences for ecological components—plants, animals, and entire habitats.

While human health risk assessment is mainly concerned with how these stressors affect human health, ecological risk assessments prioritize understanding how they impact biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and the interrelationships among different species. This focus on ecological integrity is crucial for addressing broader environmental and conservation issues, making option C the correct answer.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the defining characteristics of ecological risk assessments. For instance, limiting the scope to only chemical hazards misrepresents the broader range of stressors considered, while focusing primarily on human health impacts directly contrasts with the purpose of ecological assessments. Additionally, the notion that these assessments rely solely on qualitative methods is incorrect, as they often incorporate quantitative methodologies to help measure and predict ecological impacts effectively.