Precautionary Principle

The precautionary principle holds that when an activity raises threats of harm to the environment or human health, precautionary measures should be taken even if some cause-and-effect relationships are not fully established scientifically. This principle shifts the burden of proof to those proposing the activity, requiring them to demonstrate that it is not harmful before proceeding. It has been applied in international environmental agreements, such as those addressing ozone depletion, and contrasts with pre-emptive military action, which involves using force against a perceived future threat, as seen in the justifications for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.