The cheapest and most effective way of dealing with problems is to anticipate them before they arise and prevent negative impacts on the environment. A hierarchy of control measures should govern activities that impact on the environment. Preventative measures should be based on best available environmental practise. 19 Recognition of Women's Role Women's role in all aspects of environmental management and development should match the major role they play in resource management. This should include recognition of their rights of access to energy, services, water and land.
Every citizen is entitled to refuse to do work that is dangerous to health and the environment.
21 Responsibility for Environmental Damage Those responsible for environmental damage should pay the repair costs both to environmental and human health, and the costs of preventative measures to reduce or prevent pollution and environmental damage. This requires that resources and natural cycles of renewal and replenishment are used in a way and at a rate that does not lead to their long term decline. This is essential to maintain their potential to meet the needs and aspirations of present and future generations. There is some disagreement about the contribution of economic growth to sustainable development. Some argue that economic growth is the fundamental basis for all environmental policy and management.