Ranking environmental problems for national environmental action plans

The ranking of environmental problems among issues of national importance is an important component in preparing a National Envioronmental Action Plan (NEAP). How does environment rank in government policies beside health, social security, employment, education, wealth generation and quality of life? What efforts are made with integrated planning for environmental issues in these areas?

In ranking environmental priorities the following principles should be considered: (1) Intergenerational equity: The current generation is responsible for providing a sustainable environment for the next generation. (2) The precautionary principle: In light of uncertainties, it is best not to make decisions that may involve serious environmental risks. (3) The standstill principle: As an absolute minimum, environmental conditions shall not further deteriorate. (4) Abatement at source: Harmful environmental actions should be prevented at their source. (5) The polluter pays principle: Internalization of environmental costs through such means as licensing fees or environmental taxes. (6) Use of the best applicable technology to control pollution and other environmental harms. (7) Prevention of all unnecessary waste. Isolation, management, and control of wastes that cannot be processed. (8) Internalization: Environmental considerations are to be integrated into the actions of all responsible groups. (9) Integrated lifecycle management: Manufacturers are responsible for all environmental impacts of their products, from manufacture to use to disposal. Waste flows and pollution should be reduced at all stages. (10) Environmental space: Recognizes a limit to the level of resources each person can consume if society is to be environmentally sustainable.