ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book argues that there are deep and profound causes of what appears to be a relatively straightforward dichotomy between equity and efficiency, which often manifests itself as the contradiction between values and facts. It looks at how equity concerns factored in decisions on siting hazardous waste disposal facilities. The book presents some striking practical cases of public perception of, and opinion on, trade-offs between what appears to be economically efficient versus what are considered to be fair solutions of hazardous waste management. It explores the equity aspects of those differences both at the conceptual level as well as their practical implications for international negotiations. The book presents historical origins and the evolution of equity principles both at the conceptual level and by quoting specific cases and rulings of the International Court of Justice.
