environmental law

International Law

How one Dutch company holds the key to deep sea mining

Deep sea mining has become a much debated environmental and legal issue these last years. What if a relatively unknown Dutch company could influence the future of one of the world’s most controversial industries?

A new era in climate change litigation starts with a case against Switzerland

A decision of the European Court of Human Rights regarding Switzerland’s climate policy, serves as a landmark for environmental protection. The ruling about violations of several human rights forms a clear signal to other states to step up their climate efforts.

Private Law

The Tata saga: Another environmental issue on the court's plate?

After local residents filed charges against Tata Steel, last February the Dutch Public Prosecution Service (PPS) started criminal investigations into the steel company. These events fit in a broader trend of citizens turning to the judiciary when they feel other institutions are failing them.

Public Law

Reforming Technical and Financial Assistance for Environmental Protection: The Challenge of Plastic Pollution in the Ocean

Managing plastic waste is one of the biggest problems we face today, the severity and urgency of which is increasing. How can legal reforms, especially technical and financial assistance, address this?

Public Law

Can investor-State dispute settlement under the Energy Charter Treaty successfully protect the environment?

Counterclaims in investment arbitration are gradually developing with the aim to counter environmental harm. The Energy Charter Treaty, as an investment agreement, falls short of offering this protection.

Public Law

Legal challenges attributing State responsibility for the effects of climate change on small island States

Small Island Developing States’ are particularly vulnerable to the impact of climate change. More legal clarity is needed to seek justice for these States’ inhabitants.

Interdisciplinary Study of the Law

From petition to regulation: a deposit return system for small plastic bottles

Last week the Dutch Parliament discussed the proposal for a mandatory deposit return system for small plastic bottles. After more than 25 years of dialogue with the industry, it seems that this might be the only solution to tackle plastic pollution.

Public Law · Interdisciplinary Study of the Law

Leiden Advocacy Project on Plastic: law students at The Ocean Cleanup

About 8 million tons of plastic enters the ocean every year: plastic waste is a serious and increasing environmental problem. If nothing is done, it will ruin the marine environment in the very near future. Time for action!