2.2.2　Precautionary approach

A precautionary approach is one of the underlying values guiding eff orts to achieve more sustainable outco mes f or new and existing develop ments.

In the application of this approach,public and private decisions should be guided by:

eval uation to avoid,wherever practicable,serious or irreversible damage to the environ ment;

consideration of t he need f or electricity and a reliable water supply to alleviate poverty and enhance living standards;and(https://www.daowen.com)

an assess ment of t he risks associated wit h various options.

I HA supports the application of a precautionary approach at the national and/or regional policy level.Decision makers should consider global issues,such as gl obal war ming,acid rain,and loss of biodiversity,when

establishing national and/or regional policies for energy,water and land use.These issues should be addressed and dealt with at the national and/or regional policy level prior to t he assess ment of specific pr ojects.