Environmental Science
The Precautionary Principle in Technology and Environmental Policy
Quick fact
The precautionary principle is enshrined in international agreements like the Rio Declaration (1992), which states that lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason to postpone cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation.
Why this is interesting
Imagine a new chemical that might leak into your groundwater. Scientists aren't sure yet—should we wait for proof before banning it?