The protection of nature is a human rights issue according to recent developments in international human rights law. Governments are being urged to consider human-nature connections when making decisions that may impact the environment. A group of researchers published a commentary in npj Ocean Sustainability, emphasizing the importance of assessing foreseeable harm and taking precautionary action to avert any potential negative impacts on biodiversity and human wellbeing. They suggest that environmental decisions should be based on available evidence, including scientific and ecological knowledge as well as the cultures of local communities. This new approach would mark a significant evolution in environmental decision-making, moving away from the current reliance on quantified certainty in impact assessments.
The researchers emphasize the need for all environmental decisions to take into account the ecosystems that are crucial for human wellbeing worldwide. They argue that uncertainties in understanding should not be a reason to exclude the connections between people and nature in decision-making processes that could potentially cause harm. The study, authored by researchers from the University of Plymouth and the University of Strathclyde as part of the One Ocean Hub program, aims to support fair and inclusive decision-making for a healthy ocean for both people and the planet. Dr. Holly Niner, the lead author, stresses the importance of considering the deep ocean and other critical regions vital for global society in decision-making processes to protect the planet and human wellbeing. The senior author, Dr. Sian Rees, calls for biodiversity loss to be viewed as a human rights issue and for environmental decision-making to align with advances in international human rights law.
The deep ocean, which covers around 60% of Earth’s surface, remains largely unexplored but is known to support habitats and biodiversity essential for the health of the entire planet. The researchers point out that ecosystem services research can provide valuable insights into the connections between people and the deep-sea. They argue that there is enough evidence available to evaluate foreseeable harm and integrate these values into decision-making processes, along with precautionary approaches to mitigate any potential risks to biodiversity and human wellbeing. The article highlights the need to challenge the current context of environmental decision-making and stresses the importance of considering biodiversity loss as a human rights issue to protect it for current and future generations.
In conclusion, the researchers advocate for a new approach to environmental decision-making that prioritizes the protection of nature and human wellbeing. They suggest incorporating scientific and ecological evidence, as well as the knowledge and cultures of local communities, in decision-making processes. By considering the interconnectedness of nature and human rights, they aim to ensure that ecosystems critical for human wellbeing across the planet are appropriately accounted for in decision making. This shift towards more inclusive and precautionary decision-making could help address the challenges of biodiversity loss and environmental degradation, ultimately leading to a healthier planet for future generations.