Precautionary principle

Definition of Precautionary Principle: The principle of taking action now to avoid possible environmental damage when the scientific evidence for acting is inconclusive but the potential damage could be great.. This is the common definition for Precautionary Principle, other definitions can be discussed in the article

Notes

The Maastricht Treaty adopted the Precautionary Principle as a fundamental element of environmental policy. (Article III-233 of the draft Treaty establishing a constitution for Europe.)

See also

1. Application of precautionary approach
2. Climate change effects
3. Climate change effects - Gaps in scientific knowledge
4. Marine Strategy
5. The Integrated approach to Coastal Zone Management (ICZM)