LAWS17-557: International Environmental Law

Description

International Environmental Law is an elective subject in postgraduate programs offered by the Faculty of Law in which undergraduate students may be permitted to enrol. This subject considers the history and current role of International Environmental Law and the evolving development of customary international law principles in relation to the environment. It examines the major Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) developed over the last 40 years. The focus of this subject is on the international legal dimension. We will explore topical issues such as the Paris Agreement on climate change, human rights and environmental displacement, and the exploitation of Antarctic and Arctic regions.

Topics covered include: development of International Environmental Law, customary international principles; climate change; ozone depletion; hazardous wastes and persistent organic pollutants; whaling and trade in endangered species; biological diversity; the Antarctic Treaty System; trade, human rights, security and the environment; space debris; and nuclear energy.

Subject details

Learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate knowledge of: a) International environment law, and how that law applies to factual scenarios; b) Tensions in the international arena between national sovereignty, trading relations, economic development and human rights, and international environment law; and c) legal research principles and methods for international treaties. 2. Demonstrate the reasoning, research and communication skills to: a) Represent a State or NGO or other party in an international environment conflict; and b) Present a topic and lead discussion on current issues in international environmental law. 3. Demonstrate the ability to apply the above knowledge and skills: a) with creativity and initiative to new situations; b) with high-level personal autonomy and accountability; and c) to plan and execute substantial research based projects.

Enrolment requirements

Subject outlines

• September 2022 [Intensive - Wks 6 & 7]
• September 2021 [Intensive - Weeks 6 & 7]
• September 2019 [Intensive - Weeks 1 & 2]
• September 2017 [Intensive]

Subject dates