Right to Live Free from Toxic Chemicals  
UPdate Fall 2001

The United Nations (UN) Commission on Human Rights has concluded that
everyone has the right to live in a world free from toxic pollution and environmental degradation.  "Environmental conditions clearly help to determine the extent to which people enjoy their basic rights to life, health, adequate food and housing,
and traditional livelihood and culture. It is time to recognize that those who pollute or destroy the natural environment are not just committing a crime against nature, but are violating human rights as well," said Klaus Toepfer, executive director of the UN Environmental Program.

The UN Commissions on Human Rights and the Environment will organize a joint seminar on strengthening environmental and human rights principles.  What would they think of those who are finding any excuse not to relocate families living near the toxic Sydney Tarponds?