2018

The principle recognizes the need to evaluate all the scientific evidence we have and to draw provisional conclusions while continuing our scientific investigation, which may provide additional or more reliable data. For example, when considering environmental health issues related to the use of a pesticide, we may have a lot of scientific data, but with gaps, inconsistencies, and other scientific uncertainties. Those in favor of continuing to use that pesticide may argue that there isn’t enough proof of its danger to ban it. Others may argue that absolute proof of safety is necessary before a new pesticide is used. Those advocating the Precautionary Principle would argue that we should continue to investigate but, to be on the safe side, should not wait to take cost-effective precautionary measures to prevent environmental damage or health problems. What constitutes a cost-effective measure?

 

Certainly we would need to examine the benefits and costs of taking a particular action versus taking no action. Other economic analyses may also be appropriate. The Precautionary Principle is emerging as a new tool for environmental management and has been adopted by the city of San Francisco and the European Union.

 

There will always be arguments over what constitutes sufficient scientific knowledge for decision making. Nevertheless, the Precautionary Principle, even though it may be difficult to apply, is becoming a common part of environmental analysis with respect to environmental protection and environmental health issues. It requires us to think ahead and predict potential consequences before they occur. As a result, the Precautionary Principle is a proactive, rather than reactive, tool that is, we can use it when we see real trouble coming, rather than reacting after the trouble arises.

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