precautionary principle

British  

noun

1. the precept that an action should not be taken if the consequences are uncertain and potentially dangerous

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Example Sentences

“I would take the precautionary principle and say, ‘OK, until we know what's going on, let's put a standstill on this,’” he says.

From Science Magazine • Apr. 1, 2024

These are integrating environmental protection into policy-making; using the precautionary principle; taking action to prevent environmental damage; prioritising rectifying it at source where it does occur; and the principle that the polluter pays.

From BBC • Jul. 21, 2023

“We do acknowledge that a number of countries, based on the precautionary principle, are implementing some measures,” the WHO Europe director said.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 10, 2023

Deputy Agriculture Secretary Suarez, a vocal critic of agrochemicals, said the initiative enables Mexico to apply the so-called precautionary principle, a "safety first" approach.

From Reuters • Nov. 9, 2022

It shall be based on the precautionary principle and on the principles that preventative action should be taken, that environmental damage should as a priority be rectified at source and that the polluter should pay.

From The Treaty of the European Union, Maastricht Treaty, 7th February, 1992 by European Union