Introduction

• Author: Jamie Benidickson
• Profession: Faculty of Law University of Ottawa
• Pages: 1-11

1

INTRODUCTION

A. LAW AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Although the importance Canadians attach to environmental protec-

tion has fluctuated somewhat in relation to other social and economic

issues, it is indisputably a subject of serious and persistent concern.

Evidence of environmental deterioration in the forms of harmful pol-

lution, resource depletion, and the decline or even extinction of species

is still readily apparent despite sometimes significant indications of

progress. Attempts to explain these disturbing developments vary, with

some pointing to the incessant pressure of technology or to the uncon-

trolled expansion of human population as culprits; others blame

deeply entrenched attitudes to nature and long-established patterns of

human relationships with the environment and resources.

The suggested responses are equally diverse and often controver-

sial. Means to promote environmental protection include public edu-

cation, greater spending and investment, financial incentives and

property rights, continued technological innovation, and a legal regime

designed to prohibit environmentally detrimental activity and to

encourage beneficial initiatives. Environmental law is thus a subject of

some importance to a remarkable number of people whether they are

concerned individuals, members of environmental public-interest

groups, civil servants, corporate officials, technical and scientific

experts, or part of the wide range of legal professionals whose practice

is affected by environmental considerations.