Ohutuspõhimõte

Ohutuspõhimõte, often translated as the "precautionary principle," is a concept in risk management and environmental policy that states that if an action or policy has a suspected risk of causing harm to the public or to the environment, in the absence of scientific consensus that the action or policy is harmful, the burden of proof that it is *not* harmful falls on those taking an action that may cause harm.

The principle is invoked in situations where there is a lack of full scientific certainty about the potential negative consequences of a proposed action, technology, or policy. Instead of waiting for conclusive evidence of harm, which may come too late, the precautionary principle suggests that preventive measures should be taken. This means that proponents of a potentially risky activity must demonstrate its safety before it can proceed, rather than regulators or the public having to prove its danger.

Originating in German environmental law in the 1970s, the ohutuspõhimõte has gained broader international acceptance and is enshrined in various international agreements, including the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development. It is often applied to issues such as climate change, genetically modified organisms, and the introduction of new chemicals. Critics argue that a strict application of the principle can stifle innovation and lead to unnecessary economic burdens, as it may require extensive proof of safety for every new development. However, proponents maintain that it is a vital tool for protecting public health and the environment from potentially irreversible damage.