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Are there any recent developments or updates in the field of International Environmental Law?

Sybilla McHaffy

Hey there!

Yes, there have been several recent developments and updates in the field of International Environmental Law. As you might know, this field covers a wide range of environmental issues on a global scale, and it's constantly evolving as new environmental challenges arise.

One of the most notable developments is the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015. This international treaty aims to combat climate change by limiting global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius, and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The Paris Agreement was ratified by 189 countries, including the United States, but in 2017, the Trump administration announced its intention to withdraw from the agreement, which became effective in November 2020. However, with the new Biden administration, the United States has rejoined the agreement.

Another significant development is the recognition of the rights of nature in some countries. The concept of nature as a legal entity with its own rights has gained ground in recent years, particularly in Latin America. In 2008, Ecuador became the first country to enshrine the rights of nature in its constitution. Since then, similar constitutional provisions have been adopted in Bolivia, Mexico, and Colombia.

Moreover, there have been several international agreements and initiatives aimed at protecting biodiversity. In 2020, negotiators from 196 countries agreed to a new framework to halt the extinction of wildlife and plants, known as the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. The goal of this framework is to help achieve three main objectives by 2030: to conserve and restore biodiversity, to ensure the sustainable use of its components, and to share benefits fairly and equitably.

In addition, there have been efforts to tackle plastic pollution and marine litter on a global scale. In 2019, the United Nations Environment Assembly adopted a resolution to address marine litter and microplastics, which included measures such as reducing single-use plastic products and improving waste management practices. Furthermore, in December 2020, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on marine litter and microplastics, urging governments to take actions to address this problem.

Finally, in November 2020, the International Law Commission adopted a set of draft principles on the protection of the environment in relation to armed conflicts. This is an important development as environmental damage during armed conflicts can have long-lasting and devastating effects on ecosystems and communities.

These are just a few examples of recent developments and updates in the field of International Environmental Law. As you can see, this field is constantly evolving, and there are many challenges that require global cooperation and action.