The Precautionary Approach

Again a product of the 1992 Rio Conference, the term 'Precautionary Approach', is often used in CR-speak and literature, but is again often misunderstood. Indeed, it is sometimes believed to be the exact opposite of its intended meaning.

The Precautionary Approach refers to the scientific 'uncertainty' with regard to the environment, and most commonly Climate Change. What the principle stipulates is that lack of scientific certainty is not a sufficient reason to avoid action to prevent environmental damage.

'In order to protect the environment, the precautionary approach shall be widely applied by States according to their capabilities. Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation.'
(Principle 15 Rio Declaration)