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Lifeworlds

24. Guardians of the Earth: The Rise of Ecocide Law

Aug 27, 2024
Pella Thiel, an advocate for international Ecocide law and environmental justice, discusses groundbreaking ideas that aim to redefine how we view environmental destruction. She explains how ecocide law could align with the severity of genocide, catalyzing a moral shift in global values. Pella delves into the potential of this law to enhance ecological accountability and explores the rights of nature. Additionally, she proposes the creation of an environmental embassy to advocate for the Baltic Sea, emphasizing community action and innovative governance to protect vital ecosystems.
55:30

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Ecocide law aims to establish individual accountability for environmental damage, promoting sustainable practices and deterring corporate harm at an international level.
  • The movement seeks to embed ecological protection within human rights frameworks, emphasizing the interdependence of human well-being and environmental health.

Deep dives

The Concept of Ecocide and its Legal Implications

Ecocide refers to the unlawful or wanton acts that cause significant damage to the environment, akin to crimes like genocide. This concept gained traction in the 1970s, particularly after the environmental devastation caused by the US in Vietnam with Agent Orange, which prompted discussions on the need for ecocide to be recognized legally. In June 2021, an agreed definition was established, emphasizing the responsibility of individuals and organizations in committing acts that result in widespread environmental harm. The push for ecocide law aims to elevate these actions within international criminal law, allowing for accountability at a global level similar to other serious crimes.

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