Dealing With Uncertainty II: Towards a Precautionary Framework for Military-Origin Contaminants

Jun 19, 2014 | The Toxic Remnants of War Project
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The previous blog in this two-part series highlighted fears and uncertainties regarding the long-term health impact from military-origin chemical contamination. Some analogies were discussed from the history of industrial chemicals regulation, for example the case of benzene. While the comparison between industrial chemicals and military-origin contaminants is not a complete one, as will be outlined below, it is still of use. The important question of the nature of the action required in the face of uncertainty was not answered; this will be the subject of this second blog.

As noted above, there are important differences between industrial and occupational exposures, and those resulting from military or conflict pollution. These can include the wider range of substances involved, and the sometimes, lower doses involved. Nonetheless, given the range of known pollutants commonly dispersed in conflict settings, some investigative and precautionary action is required in order to protect both civilians and the environment.

For the purposes of this discussion, it is important to specify that uncertainty has been taken to mean a lack of knowledge or incomplete information that limits preventative harm reduction measures.