The threat of serious and irreversible damage from POPs, from birth defects to cancers, provides a compelling basis for precautionary action even in the absence of full scientific certainty about the mechanisms and effects. Because of their remarkable transport abilities, there is no way to escape their reach. All relevant information and options should be considered. To identify the response that best protects wildlife, the environment, and public health, precaution entails a thorough review of all the options, from no action to goal-setting to phase out and elimination. In the context of POPs, this analysis leads to elimination as the only response that provides effective safeguards in light of available POPs-free substances and processes.
Many alternatives exist today, while others are within scientific reach.
Elimination, not management, must be the ultimate goal. The precautionary approach dictates the phase out and ultimate elimination of the 12 pollutants under consideration. All belong in Annex A because of the threats posed to wildlife, the environment, and human health. NIPs should reflect each Party s plan to phase out and eliminate POPs consistent with the Treaty and with technical and financial capabilities. The NIPs should incorporate reference to and build upon the precautionary approach.