ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the evolution and substance of sustainable development principles in the European Union (EU) through an exploration of key treaties and jurisprudence. The sustainable development principle of precaution is explored through its interpretation and application by European Court of Justice (ECJ) and Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). The chapter provides observations and critical thoughts relating to interfaces of sustainable development, integration and precautionary principle. Sustainable development is a notion that appears prominently in European treaties. Sustainable development is enshrined as a core principle of Treaty of the European Union (TEU). The Preamble of the TEU refers to sustainable development as one of the principles that should inspire the promotion of economic and social progress of EU peoples. Several references to sustainable development are contained in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). The Preamble provides that the Union seek "to promote balanced and sustainable development" through strengthened protections for fundamental human rights.
