Project Abstract

Abstract
International environmental law faces the challenge of ensuring equality among unequals in the context of global environmental governance. The principle of equality, a fundamental tenet of international law, encounters complexities in the environmental realm due to the diverse capabilities and responsibilities of states. This paper explores the tension between the principle of equality and the unequal capacities and vulnerabilities of states in addressing environmental issues. It delves into the intricacies of how international environmental law attempts to reconcile the conflicting notions of equality and differentiation among states. The concept of common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR) has been a cornerstone in international environmental agreements, acknowledging historical disparities in development and environmental impact among states. However, the implementation of CBDR has faced challenges in practice, leading to questions about the effectiveness of this approach in achieving equitable environmental outcomes. This research critically examines the evolution and application of CBDR in international environmental law, highlighting its strengths and limitations in promoting equality among states with varying levels of development and environmental impact. Furthermore, the role of non-state actors, such as civil society organizations and multinational corporations, in influencing environmental governance adds another layer of complexity to the quest for equality in international environmental law. These actors often possess significant resources and influence, raising questions about how their participation can either support or undermine efforts to achieve environmental equity among states. The research analyzes the evolving landscape of non-state actor involvement in international environmental decision-making processes and its implications for the realization of equality objectives. In exploring the theme of equality among unequals in international environmental law, this paper also considers the intersectionality of environmental issues with other dimensions of inequality, such as gender, race, and socioeconomic status. Recognizing the interconnections between environmental degradation and social disparities, the research discusses how addressing these intersecting inequalities is essential for advancing a more inclusive and just global environmental governance framework. Overall, this research contributes to the ongoing discourse on equality in international environmental law by offering a nuanced analysis of the challenges and opportunities in promoting equitable environmental outcomes among states with varying capacities and responsibilities. By highlighting the complexities of achieving equality among unequals, the paper aims to inform future policy discussions and decision-making processes in the realm of global environmental governance.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION

To deal effectively with global environmental problems, such as climate change, we need global cooperation. Yet all too many developing countries lack the economics, infrastructures, and technical capacity to tackle these problems; therefore, developing countries need to be accorded differential treatment in the international environmental agreements adopted to prevent or mitigate the problems, if these agreements are to succeed.. This study addresses a very current, cutting-edge, and controversial issue of great importance to international environmental law and its success in protecting a livable planet.

In an attempt to get beyond words to action, this book looks at global environmental problems from the perspective of getting developing countries more involved in solving these problems. How can they best be brought into the realm of international environmental regulation and gotten o nto the pathway to sustainable development? The idea is that the new trend of using incentives to promote developing country participation in international environmental agreements – in effect, giving them differential treatment – must continue and become part of the framework of international environment