About Precaution
Precaution is a systemic change that transforms the way we approach environmental regulation and decision making. This change is rooted in a paradigm shift away from risk/benefit and cost/benefit decision-making that asks, "what level of harm is acceptable?" to a precautionary approach which asks, "how can we prevent harm?"
Precaution is a “better safe than sorry” approach motivated by caution and prevention.
Precaution includes these four principles.
Heed Early Warnings
Government and industry have a duty to prevent harm when there is credible evidence that harm is occurring or is likely to occur—even when the exact nature and full magnitude of harm is not yet proven.
Put Safety First
Industry and government have a responsibility to thoroughly study the potential for harm from a new chemical or technology before it is used—rather than assume it is harmless until proven otherwise. We need to ensure it is safe now, or we will be sorry later.
Exercise Democracy
Precautionary decisions place the highest priority on protecting health and the environment, and are based on meaningful citizen input, with the highest regard for those whose health may be affected and for our irreplaceable natural resources.
Choose the Safest Solution
Decision-making by government, industry and individuals must include an evaluation of alternatives, and the choice of the safest, technically feasible solutions that create a healthy environment and economy, and protect our natural resources.
To learn more about precaution, use the links on the left.
