Understanding and Applying the Precautionary Principle to Deep Sea Minerals Mining in the Pacific Islands Region: A socio-cultural and legal approach

Abstract

The principle provides guidance on a process for avoiding serious or irreversible harm under conditions of uncertainty. Precautionary measures can range from a moratorium on the proposed development, when potential for harm and uncertainty are deemed unacceptable, to careful monitoring of the development project at the other extreme. The principle requires a participatory decision-making process that gains definition and meaning as it is applied in specific situations.