Towards A
Protected Environment: The Origin and Development of Environmental Law
Isida Bishka
Aleksander Moisiu University, Durres, Albania
Abstract
Towards a Protected Environment: The Origin and Development of Environmental Law
Ph.D. candidate Isida Bishka
Assistant lecturer, Faculty of Political Sciences and Law
University of Durres “Aleksandër Moisiu”
Abstract
From the urgency of defending the planet arises the international environmental law, which over the years has evolved from the first pioneering agreements to a complex system of norms today. This entire international legal framework reflects the growing global awareness for a sustainable environment, which is why its protection is at the center of the interests of the international community.
Undoubtedly, today the environment is considered a global common good, a fundamental value and right, and consequently, its protection and conservation correspond to the interests of all states, granting it importance equal to all primary human needs.
The purpose of this presentation is to examine the evolution of international environmental law, exploring the most important milestones and pioneering agreements that have shaped key principles and, consequently, its development.
In addition to analyzing significant milestones at the international level, such as the Earth Summit in 1992, the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, the Johannesburg Conference in 2002, and the Paris Agreement in 2015, the analysis will also introspectively focus on the legislation of the European Union. In particular, European environmental law today stands as one of the fundamental pillars of union policy, having a considerable impact as it harmonizes national policies, thus also ensuring the commitment to protect a healthy and uncontaminated environment.
Through historical analysis, the aim is to better understand the evolution of international regulations regarding the environment. Consequently, the goal is to understand how this sector has not only evolved to become essential in the international arena but also to grasp what the future challenges are and whether the path taken is in the right direction to promote a sustainable environment and protect our common home, our planet.
Keywords: International environmental law, sustainability, climate change, EU environmental legislation.
Presentation