Precautionary principle
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The Precautionary principle stems from both experience and common sense. It assumes that something poses a risk until proven to be safe. The Precautionary principle is the source of much contention between industry, environment groups, governments and legistators. History has proven that caution is always the best policy when releasing with new pharmaceuticals (e.g. thalidomide), pestides (e.g. DDT), new techologies (e.g. GM foods) and waste products (e.g. dioxins) onto people and the environment.
Industry is not keen on the Precautionary principle because it takes time and money to test a new product. However, when industry doesn't take the time and money to test their new product the cost of deleterious environmental or health issues is picked up by the public - either directly if the product affects their health, or indirectly through their taxes being spent money on the clean-up.
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History
Overview
Whilst it is prudent to be cautious when adopting a new technology, drug, process, or food, it is important to note that there are no technologies without inherent risks. For example, all drugs have side affects and the potential for misuse, you can die from drinking too much water, or eating too many slices of bread. The precautionery principle is often used to justify resistance to any new technology, without giving due consideration to the risks that result from continuing to use an old technology.
