Il principio di precauzione nel diritto internazionale ed europeo: il ruolo della scienza e del diritto nell’emergenza climatica

The Precautionary Principle in International and EU Law: The Role of Science and Law in the Climate Emergency

Abstract

In this paper I try to define the role that the precautionary principle can play in tackling the current climate emergency by showing the importance it is given by international and EU law, and how it implies a cooperation between scientists and policy makers. First, I summarize the origins of the precautionary principle in both legal orders; then, I examine how it is currently employed by the 2015 Paris Agreement and the so-called European Green Deal in order to contrast global warming; finally, I reflect on the links between scientific evaluations and political decisions in implementing the principle.

Keywords: Precautionary principle; Global warming; Paris Agreement; European Green Deal; Climate science.