THE COUSTEAU SOCIETY

PETITION FOR THE RIGHTS OF FUTURE GENERATIONS

A Bill of Rights for Future Generations

Article 1
Future generations have a right to an uncontaminated and 
undamaged Earth and to its enjoyment as the ground of human 
history, of culture, and of social bonds that make each 
generation and individual a member of one human family.

Article 2
Each generation, sharing in the estate and heritage of the 
Earth, has a duty as trustee for future generations to prevent 
irreversible and irreparable harm to life on Earth and to 
human freedom and dignity.

Article 3
It is, therefore, the paramount responsibility of each 
generation to maintain a constantly vigilant and prudential 
assessment of technological disturbances and modifications 
adversely affecting life on Earth, the balance of nature, and 
the evolution of mankind in order to protect the rights of 
future generations.

Article 4
All appropriate measures, including education, research and 
legislation shall be taken to guarantee these rights and to 
ensure that they not be sacrificed for present expediencies 
and 
conveniences.

Article 5
Governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals 
are urged, therefore, imaginatively to implement these 
principles, as if in the very presence of those future 
generations whose rights we seek to establish and perpetuate.


"Overpopulation and the excesses of human activities are 
posing a terrible threat to our descendants. We solemnly 
demand that the rights of future generations be formally 
declared in order that all people may inherit an 
uncontaminated planet where life may flourish."
                             Jacques-Yves Cousteau




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The Cousteau Society is distributing these petitions for the 
rights of future generations.  If you would like to help with 
this work and pass around a petition please leave your name 
and address with the Sysop, Emily Parris.  She will see that 
you are mailed a copy of the Cousteau Society Petition.  Or 
you may also write to The Cousteau Society, 870 Greenbrier 
Circle, Suite 402, Chesapeake, VA 23320 and ask them for 
copies of the petition and any additional information you 
might need.