Wingspread Statement on the Precautionary Principle
"The release and use of toxic substances, the
exploitation of resources, and physical alterations of the environment
have had substantial unintended consequences affecting human health
and the environment. Some of these concerns are high rates of
learning deficiencies, asthma, cancer, birth defects and species
extinctions, along with global climate change, stratospheric ozone
depletion and worldwide contamination with toxic substances and
nuclear materials.
We believe existing environmental regulations
and other decisions, particularly those based on risk assessment,
have failed to protect adequately human health and the environment,
the larger system of which humans are but a part.
We believe there is compelling evidence that
damage to humans and the worldwide environment is of such magnitude
and seriousness that new principles for conducting human activities
are necessary.
While we realize that human activities may
involve hazards, people must proceed more carefully than has been
the case in recent history. Corporations, government entities,
organizations, communities, scientists and other individuals must
adopt a precautionary approach to all human endeavors.
Therefore, it is necessary to implement the
Precautionary Principle: When an activity raises threats of harm
to human health or the environment, precautionary measures should
be taken even if some cause and effect relationships are not fully
established scientifically. In this context the proponent of an
activity, rather than the public, should bear the burden of proof.
The process of applying the Precautionary Principle
must be open, informed and democratic and must include potentially
affected parties. It must also involve an examination of the full
range of alternatives, including no action."