Science and Environmental Health Network  [Printer-friendly version]
August 22, 2006

TRY THIS AT HOME: CAN PRECAUTION APPLY TO TOXIC CLEANUPS?

[Rachel's introduction: Here we begin an occasional column by Carolyn
Raffensperger, "Try this at home" -- how to apply precaution in
common situations. We welcome your questions sent to rpr@rachel.org.
We may not be able to answer all of them, but we will try.]

By Carolyn Raffensperger

Recently we received an email asking,

"Does the Precautionary Principle apply to contaminated properties
that are being considered for redevelopment? I appreciate any
response. Thank You." -- Olivia

Dear Olivia,

There are answers on multiple levels to your question. I will give
several.

1) Contaminated sites are a good rationale for the precautionary
principle -- so we don't have more contaminated sites. All that is to
say, the principle works best before the contamination occurs because
it is designed to prevent harm.

2) However, a contaminated site can cause future damage if left to
fester. Invoking the precautionary principle to prevent future harm
from inadequate or no clean up of the site is a perfectly appropriate
use of the principle.

3) The precautionary principle is embedded in a large ethical position
of preventing harm to future generations. Leaving a contaminated site
to those to come is immoral. Therefore it is our ethical
responsibility to use the precautionary principle and prevent any more
harm.

Best wishes, --Carolyn