Giving Nature a Voice: Why Laws Should Care About More Than Just Us

In July 2025, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) made a big statement. They said countries must cut emissions and protect the climate. But here's the catch: they didn't mention nature's rights. The ruling focused on human rights and the harm caused by climate change. It's a step forward, but it's still all about us, humans.

The ICJ's Ruling: A Big Deal, But Incomplete

The ICJ's ruling is a big deal. It says countries that pollute a lot must cut emissions and help fix the damage. If they don't, they could face consequences. But why didn't they talk about nature's rights? Why is it always about what's good for us, not what's good for the planet?

Ecological Jurisprudence: Nature Has Rights Too

Ecological jurisprudence is a big word for a simple idea: nature has rights too. It's not just about protecting the environment for our benefit. It's about recognizing that nature has value in itself. This idea isn't new. Many cultures have always believed in this. But in the past 20 years, it's started to become law.

Over 400 Laws Worldwide Recognize Nature's Rights

There are over 400 laws around the world that recognize nature's rights. Ecuador was the first country to add the rights of "Pachamama" or "Mother Earth" to its constitution. New Zealand gave legal personhood to the Whanganui River. These are just a few examples. But why aren't these rights recognized internationally?

Ecocide: A Crime Beyond Wartime?

Ecocide is another big word. It means causing severe and lasting damage to the environment. Right now, it's only a crime during wartime. But in 2021, a group of lawyers proposed a new definition. They said ecocide should be a crime anytime, not just during war. But would it work? And would countries like the US, Russia, India, and China, who haven't signed the treaty, follow it?

Belgium Makes Ecocide a Crime

Belgium recently passed a law making ecocide a crime. It's the first time in Europe. But even there, it's not straightforward. The law is limited because environmental laws are mostly decided by regional governments.

The Solution: Combining Nature's Rights and Ecocide Laws

So, what's the solution? Maybe it's time for nature's rights and ecocide laws to work together. Rights of Nature laws can protect against smaller harms. Ecocide laws can punish the big, severe damages. Together, they could create a stronger, more effective system. But for that to happen, we need to think beyond just humans. We need to think about the planet as a whole.