I.
Interdependence, participation, providing information,
and improving science
We all need to recognize our economic, ecological and
social interdependence on a global scale and understand
and respect differing economic and social views, values,
traditions and aspirations. We are all caretakers of the
economy, the environment, and social well-being for the
benefit of present and future generations. Today’s
decisions must be balanced with tomorrow’s effects. A
participatory process on all scales of decision making
is vital to community sustainability. Such a process
engages all the people who have a stake in the outcome
of the decision being contemplated. It encourages the
identification of concerns and issues, promotes the wide
generation of ideas for dealing with those concerns, and
helps those involved find a way to reach agreement about
solutions.
PRINCIPLES
| 1. |
Interdependence |
| 2. |
Individuals must recognize the impact they
have on a global level Individuals should cooperate in a spirit of global partnership to conserve, protect and restore the health and integrity of the Earth's ecosystem. In view of the different contributions to global environmental degradation, individuals have common but differentiated responsibilities. The responsibility that we bear in the pursuit of sustainability in view of the pressures we place on the global environment, and of the technologies and financial resources we all command must be acknowledged. |
| 3. |
Natural resources should be protected for
those that cannot do so themselves. The environment and natural resources of people under oppression, domination and occupation should be protected. |
| 4. |
Facilitation, refinement and access to
information We should encourage and facilitate the improvement and refinement of information, and promote the opportunity for equal and timely access to information by all. This results in the production and dissemination of important, relevant information, fosters a sense of community, produces ideas that may not have been considered otherwise, and engenders a sense of ownership on the part of the community for the final decision. |
| 5. |
Improving scientific and technological
knowledge by innovation Individuals should cooperate to strengthen sustainable development by improving scientific understandings through exchanges of scientific and technological knowledge, and by enhancing the development, adaptation, diffusion and transfer of technologies, including new and innovative technologies. |
| 6. |
Public awareness, and participation on issues Environmental issues are best handled with the participation of all concerned citizens, at the relevant level. At the national level, each individual shall have appropriate access to information concerning the environment that is held by public authorities, including information on hazardous materials and activities in their communities, and the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes. Facilitation and encouragement of public awareness and participation should be accomplished by making information widely available. Effective access to judicial and administrative proceedings, including redress and remedy, shall be provided. |
| 7. |
The precautionary approach |