Precautionary Principle and Polluter Pays Principle

The precautionary principle, outlined in Planning Policy Statement 1, General Principles, advises that where there are significant risks of damage to the environment associated with a development proposal, its protection will be paramount unless there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest. In some cases, it may be possible to grant planning permission for a particular waste management facility subject to conditions and/or a planning agreement to mitigate or compensate for any adverse environmental effects. The polluter pays principle means that polluters should pay the full costs of any measures required to protect the environment as a result of their actions.