The precautionary principle begins with a statement of beliefs, including this one: “We believe there is compelling evidence that damage to humans and the worldwide environment is of such magnitude...

The precautionary principle begins with a statement of beliefs, including this one: “We believe there is compelling evidence that damage to humans and the worldwide environment is of such magnitude and seriousness that new principles for conducting human activities are necessary” (from the “Wingspread Statement on the Precautionary Principle”). It is likely that, coupled with the need to regulate carbon emissions, the theme of chemicals in building materials will become the future of green building technology. Research manufacturers of three diverse building products (insulation, paint, and wood cabinets, for example), and determine which, if any, have built the precautionary principle into their corporate policies.