What is the relation between Best MPs and the “precautionary principle”?
When preliminary impact assessments and monitoring determine that environmental risks exist, the first impulse of some parties may be to suspend the dredging project under the motto of the “precautionary principle”. The precautionary principle has been referred to as the “err on the side of caution” option. Sometimes this translates into: If uncertainty exists about environmental impacts, take no chances. The Communication from the Commission of the European Communities on the Precautionary Principle (Brussels, 2000) actually states that the precautionary principle should be applied within a structured approach to the analysis of risk. Prohibiting dredging may ensure that no (immediate) environmental impacts occur, but ultimately may cause more risks to society. The stoppage of a dredging project can adversely affect safety (e.g., failure to reinforce dykes may result in flooding) or be economically detrimental, Potential impacts on the ecosystem caused during dredging (left) or placem
