Social Equity

The resources and benefits derived from the natural environment and from social and economic activities should be equitably shared, recognizing that every British Columbian has the right to clean air and water, healthful food, adequate shelter, quality education and health care, safe surroundings, a sustainable livelihood, and active participation in the economy.

Full Cost Economics

Short and long term environmental, social and economic impacts need to be taken into account at both the local and the provincial level. This requires true costs to be accurately reflected in the price of all goods and services in order to discourage pollution and resource waste, and encourage innovation, socially and environmentally responsible behaviour, and true progress toward sustainability.

Precautionary Principle

Given the best available information, where there is no scientific consensus on risks that specific actions or policies might pose to human health or the environment, decisions must err on the side of caution.?? Lack of scientific certainty should not be used as a reason to delay action to prevent harm, where a threat to health or the environment exists.

Adaptive Management

The use of best available practices and technologies needs to occur within a culture of continuous learning, adequate monitoring and a commitment to modify strategic directions in order to achieve sustainability objectives.

Democracy and Due Process

Access to full and accurate information concerning all elements of public policy, meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions that affect them, and entitlement to fair treatment by the judicial system are fundamental rights of all citizens.

Just Transition

Mechanisms must be in place to manage the transition toward Sustainable BC so that everyone takes responsibility and no one bears an unfair share of the burden of change.