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the precautionary principle

The precautionary principle is a strategy for decision-making that advises taking proactive action in the face of uncertainty. It means that if an action, policy, or project has the potential to cause harm to the public or the environment, and there is no scientific consensus on its safety, we should err on the side of caution. This principle encourages preventive measures rather than waiting for evidence of harm to accumulate. Essentially, it emphasizes being careful and responsible, especially when the risks are significant and the potential consequences could be severe.

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  • Image for the precautionary principle

    The Precautionary Principle is an approach to decision-making that advises taking preventive action in the face of uncertainty. When there are potential risks to health or the environment, this principle suggests that it's better to err on the side of caution, even if not all the evidence is clear. It emphasizes minimizing harm and protecting public welfare, especially in situations where an action could lead to serious consequences. Essentially, if there’s a possible threat, we should act responsibly to avoid it, rather than waiting for conclusive evidence that the risk is serious.

  • Image for the precautionary principle

    The Precautionary Principle is a strategy used to prevent harm when there is uncertainty about potential risks. It suggests that if an action or policy could lead to serious or irreversible harm to the public or the environment, in the absence of scientific consensus, it is better to err on the side of caution. This means taking proactive steps to avoid harmful outcomes rather than waiting for proof of danger. In essence, it encourages responsible decision-making to protect health and the environment, prioritizing safety over uncertainty.