What type of risk assessment uses PECQs to guide environmental protection?

The correct answer is the ecological risk assessment, as this type of assessment specifically focuses on the potential adverse effects of pollutants and contaminants on ecosystems and their components, including plants, animals, and their habitats. PECQs, or Probable Effect Concentration Quotients, are utilized within this context to quantify the risk of chemical substances and determine their potential impact on the environment. By using PECQs, researchers can compare concentrations of contaminants in environmental samples to established effect concentrations, which helps assess the likelihood of harmful effects on aquatic and terrestrial organisms.

Ecological risk assessments aim to evaluate the risks posed by pollutants and guide management decisions that protect ecosystems. The focus on environmental protection aligns directly with the principles and applications of PECQs, making this the most relevant type of risk assessment in this scenario.