EVOLUTION OF THE PRECAUTIONARY PRINCIPLE IN ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS
The article traces the evolution of ethical principles which regulate the risks for man and nature. It shows that the effects of many of the present environmental problems are characterized by a high degree of scientific uncertainty. In these cases, the precautionary principle should be used, according to which the absence of scientific certainty cannot be used as the reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental destruction. The principle is applied in cases where possible damages are morally unacceptable, that is serious and irreversible, threatens human life, health, future generations, and violates human rights.