THE PRECAUTIONARY PRINCIPLE
There is no consensus definition of the Precautionary Principle, nor general agreement on its application. However, in the Treaty of Maastricht (1992), EU member states formally resolved to, "Take prudent action when there is sufficient scientific evidence (but not necessarily absolute proof] that inaction could lead to harm and where action can be justified on reasonable judgements of cost-effectiveness". That principle was incorporated in a later ruling by the European Court of Justice: "Where there is uncertainty as to the existence or extent of risks to human f health, the Commission may take protective measures without having to wait until the reality or seriousness of those risks becomes apparent". See also: Commission of the European Communities - Communication from the Commission on the Precautionary Principle, COM (2000) 1, Feb. 2000, Brussels.
HOME or WHAT'S NEW?