ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION LAWS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Abstract - Climate change, pollution, loss of biodiversity and depletion of resources have become a world issue of concern because of the growing concern on environmental protection. Laws that protect the environment are crucial in controlling human activities that influence natural ecosystems and ensuring sustainable development. Sustainable development aims at striking a balance between economic growth, social welfare and environmental conservation in order to satisfy the current needs without affecting the potential of the future generations to satisfy their own needs. In this paper, the connection between the environmental protection laws and sustainable development is analyzed, key environmental legislation are outlined, the difficulties in implementation are discussed, and the future of environmental governance is given. The paper finds that proper legal frameworks are crucial in envisioning environmental sustainability and long term socio-economic growth. Keywords: Environmental Law, Sustainable Development, Environmental Protection, Climate Change, Natural Resources, Environmental Governance, Green Development.