International Environmental Law

Course

This course explores the evolution and development of international environmental law (IEL). We will review basic environmental problems at the global, transboundary and local levels and analyze the relevance of law for resolving these arduous dilemmas. A particular focus for the class is the concept and formation of international law in the international system, including: international codification, sources and subjects, and problems of compliance. We will review the history of international environmental law negotiations from Stockholm (1972) to Rio (1992) to Johannesburg (2002). The basic legal principles and rules of international environmental law will be examined in the following areas: international air pollution (transboundary, ozone, and climate change), oceans and seas, hazardous wastes, biological diversity, wildlife conservation, and international trade. The course includes measures to make international environmental law more effective in the struggle for ecological balance.