Nature as a subject
what does it change in practice?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62009/bemviver.2764.9679n2/2024/422/p14-21Keywords:
Nature, subject of rights, social justice, sustainability, well-beingAbstract
This text discusses the importance of recognizing Nature as a subject of rights, a paradigm shift that transforms the relationship between humans and the environment, promoting legal protection, social justice, and sustainability. The idea presupposes that rivers, forests, and animals have rights of their own, allowing them to be defended in court with legal representatives, regardless of economic or human interests. Countries like Ecuador and Colombia have already adopted this concept in their constitutions and judicial decisions, while in Brazil, progress is being made through municipal legislation. The proposal also aims to strengthen social justice, especially for indigenous peoples and vulnerable communities who are most affected by environmental degradation, to preserve their cultures and guarantee their rights. Environmental degradation impacts society as a whole, particularly vulnerable groups, increasing inequalities and threatening public health and well-being. Adopting this perspective broadens social participation, strengthens environmental democracy, and promotes an integrated approach to protecting ecosystems and communities. Consequently, it aims for sustainable development based on the concept of buen vivir (well-being), which values harmony between humans, Nature, and society, fostering justice, quality of life, and environmental preservation. In conclusion, protecting Nature is also about safeguarding life, traditional peoples, and ensuring a fairer, healthier, and more balanced future for all.
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