Biodiversity conservation_ local and gl...pdf (600.54 kB)
Biodiversity conservation: local and global consequences of the application of “rights of nature” by Ecuador
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-10, 02:05 authored by Juan M Guayasamin, Roo Vandegrift, Tobias Policha, Andrea C Encalada, Natalia Greene, Blanca Ríos-Touma, Lorena Endara, Rafael E Cárdenas, Fred Larreátegui, Luis Baquero, Inty Arcos, José Cueva, Mika PeckMika Peck, Felipe Alfonso-Cortes, Daniel Thomas, José DeCoux, Elisa Levy, Bitty A RoyIn 2008, Ecuador recognized the Constitutional Rights of Nature in a global first. This recognition implies a major shift in the human-nature relationship, from one between a subject with agency (humans) and an exploitable object (nature), to a more equilibrated relationship. However, the lack of a standard legal framework has left room for subjective interpretations and variable implementation. The recent widespread concessioning of pristine ecosystems to mining industries has set up an unprecedented conflict and test of these rights. Currently, a landmark case involving Los Cedros Protected Forest and mining companies has reached the Constitutional Court of Ecuador. If Ecuador’s highest Court rules in favor of Los Cedros and the Rights of Nature, it would set a legal precedent with enormous impact on biological conservation. Such a policy shift offers a novel conservation strategy, through citizen oversight and action. A ruling against Los Cedros and the Rights of Nature, while a major setback for biodiversity conservation, would be taken in stride by the active social movement supporting these goals, with the case likely moving into international courts. Meanwhile, extractive activities would continue and expand, with known consequences for biodiversity.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
Neotropical BiodiversityISSN
2376-6808Publisher
Taylor & FrancisExternal DOI
Issue
1Volume
7Page range
541-545Department affiliated with
- Evolution, Behaviour and Environment Publications
Research groups affiliated with
- Sussex Sustainability Research Programme Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2022-01-04First Open Access (FOA) Date
2022-01-04First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2022-01-04Usage metrics
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