The precautionary principle is the notion that if an activity or innovation presents a risk of harm to the environment or to human beings, conservative measures such as delaying or impeding the introduction of a new action or steps to mitigate damage should be taken, even if cause and effect have not been firmly established and the risk cannot be fully characterized by scientific studies. It is a profoundly conservative policy, called by the translation of its German name, Vorsorgeprinzip, and articulated by the historic Wingspread Conference. The implications of the precautionary principle are many but primarily it seeks to shift the burden of proof away from those who question safety of a toxic chemical or environmental intervention onto those who propose to use that chemical or implement the action. It also tries to be a "no regrets" policy, encouraging innovation and alternatives that are not associated with risk and that prevent harm. The policy now guides the environmental policies of the European Union and its member states.
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