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International court to punish nations failing to prevent global warming (Telegraph)
Louise Gray
Telegraph
November 30, 2008
Stephen Hockman QC is proposing a body similar to the International Court of Justice in The Hague to be the supreme legal authority on issues regarding the environment. The first role of the new body would be to enforce international agreements on cutting greenhouse gas emissions set to be agreed next year.
But the court would also fine countries or companies that fail to protect endangered species or degrade the natural environment and enforce the "right to a healthy environment".
The innovative idea is being presented to an audience of politicians, scientists and public figures for the first time at a symposium at the British Library.
Mr Hockman, a deputy High Court judge, said that the threat of climate change means it is more important than ever for the law to protect the environment.
The UN Climate Change Conference in Poznan, Poland this month is set to begin negotiations that will lead to a new agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol in Copenhagen next year. Developed countries are expected to commit to cutting emissions drastically, while developing countries agree to halt deforestation.
4 Comments
Finally!All these decades we were inactive and this is where we ened.We ended to a destroyed environment,to colossal industries poluting our atmosphere without anyone enforcing them to be more carefull.I think that this is the best way to ensure international agreements.
Finally!All these decades we were inactive and this is where we ened.We ended to a destroyed environment,to colossal industries poluting our atmosphere without anyone enforcing them to be more carefull.I think that this is the best way to ensure international agreements.
Its high time we form an authority on issues regarding the environment. The crucial issue would be enforcing international agreements on cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
Developed countries should take initiative in this issue and be model to other countries in committing to cut emissions and stop deforestation.
Its high time we form an authority on issues regarding the environment. The crucial issue would be enforcing international agreements on cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
Developed countries should take initiative in this issue and be model to other countries in committing to cut emissions and stop deforestation.