Promoting Ecological Justice Through a Human Rights and Environmental Approach

Throughout the event, the speakers explained that ecological justice is a principle affirming that humans, communities, future generations, and nature itself are entitled to justice, protection, and respect. Environmental damage such as climate change, deforestation, biodiversity loss, pollution, and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources directly affects the fulfillment of fundamental human rights, including the rights to health, life, and a safe environment. The lecture also highlighted that ecological justice goes beyond conventional environmental protection by promoting a fair relationship between humans and nature, equitable distribution of environmental benefits and burdens, protection of vulnerable groups, and sustainable ecosystem management for the benefit of future generations.

The discussion also addressed the development of the concept of the rights of nature. Participants were introduced to several international developments in which nature has been recognized as a legal subject. Ecuador, for example, recognizes the rights of nature within its constitution, while New Zealand has granted legal personhood status to the Whanganui River. These examples demonstrate a shift from an anthropocentric perspective toward an ecocentric approach that views ecosystems as entities possessing intrinsic value beyond merely serving human interests.

Another important issue discussed during the guest lecture was corporate environmental accountability. The speakers explained that corporations significantly contribute to environmental degradation through industrial pollution, fossil fuel exploitation, deforestation, and excessive use of natural resources. Therefore, corporations are increasingly expected to comply with environmental standards, conduct environmental impact assessments, respect human rights obligations, and support sustainable development through the implementation of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.