A risk characterization is Determination of the nature of a given risk and quantifying of the potential for adverse change to the environment from that risk. "A phase of ecological risk assessment that integrates the results of the exposure and ecological effects analyses to evaluate the likelihood of adverse ecological effects associated with exposure to a stressor. The ecological significance of the adverse effects is discussed, including consideration of the types and magnitudes of the effects, their spatial and temporal patterns, and the likelihood of recovery" (RAF 1992, 38).