Why is it in the News?

The precautionary principle is becoming an established guideline for policymakers tackling environmental problems according to British environmentalist Norman Myers

What is the Precautionary Principle?

• The Precautionary Principle serves as a foundational concept in policymaking, advocating for the adoption of proactive measures to mitigate potential risks to public health or the environment:
• Proactive Risk Management: The principle legitimizes the implementation of preventative measures in situations where there are uncertainties regarding the extent of harm posed by certain activities or policies.
  • Rather than waiting for conclusive scientific evidence, decision-makers are encouraged to take preemptive action to prevent serious or irreversible damage.
• Scientific Uncertainty: It acknowledges that in cases where scientific certainty is lacking, waiting for conclusive evidence before taking action may result in significant harm.
  • Therefore, the principle emphasizes the importance of not using the absence of full scientific certainty as a justification for delaying necessary measures to prevent environmental degradation or protect public health.
• Risk-Averse Approach: By advocating for precautionary action, even in the absence of absolute certainty about potential harm, the principle prioritizes safety and prudence.
  • It underscores the importance of erring on the side of caution to safeguard against potential risks, thus emphasizing a preventive rather than reactive approach.
• International Recognition: Originating in the 1970s, the Precautionary Principle has gained international recognition and has been enshrined in various international treaties and conventions related to environmental protection.
  • It has been incorporated into the legal frameworks of organizations such as the European Union and has influenced decisions on issues ranging from climate change to biodiversity conservation.
• Application in Policy: The principle has influenced the development of laws and regulations worldwide, shaping policies related to endangered species, climate change, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
  • Notably, it has played a significant role in determining the European Union's stance on GMOs and has been integral to the formulation of EU environmental law.
• The Precautionary Principle emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures to address potential risks, particularly in situations where scientific evidence is uncertain but the potential consequences are significant.
  • It embodies a proactive and risk-aware approach to policymaking, intending to prevent harm and promote sustainable development.

About Jim Corbett National Park:

• Jim Corbett National Park, named after the renowned naturalist and conservationist Jim Corbett, is situated in Uttarakhand's Nainital district.
• As the oldest national park in India, it was initially established as Hailey National Park in 1936 to protect the endangered Bengal tiger.
• The park is an integral part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve, with the Patli Dun Valley forming its core area.
• The Ramganga River flows through the park, contributing to its diverse ecosystem.
• Not only is it known for its rich biodiversity, but also for being the first area to come under the Project Tiger initiative in 1973.