Navigation Menu
Thuringia

Thuringia

Constitution of the Free State of Thuringia (1993)

December 72017

Part I, Section IV, Article 31:

“(1) The protection of the natural foundations of human life is the task of the Free State and its inhabitants.

(2) The natural balance and its functionality must be protected. The native animal and plant species as well as particularly valuable landscapes and areas are to be preserved and put under protection. The country and its local authorities aim to eliminate or compensate for human-caused environmental damage as far as possible.

(3) Use natural resources and energy sparingly. The state and its local authorities promote an environmentally sound energy supply.

Part I, Section IV, Article 33:

“Everyone has the right to information about the data concerning the natural environment in their habitat and that have been collected by the Free State, as far as legal regulations or rights of third parties are not opposed.

 

More Information»
Saxony-Anhalt

Saxony-Anhalt

Constitution of the Land of Saxony-Anhalt (1992)

December 72017

Part II, Section I, Article 6:

“(2) Everyone has the right to information about the projects and data in the area of ​​public authority, which affect the natural environment in his habitat, as far as not contrary to federal law, legally protected interests of third parties or the well-being of the public. The details are regulated by the laws.

Part II, Section III, Article 35:

(1) The country and local communities protect and nurture the natural foundations of present and future life. They have the effect of sparing raw materials and avoiding waste.

(2) Each individual is obliged to contribute to his efforts.

(3) Damage to the natural environment that has occurred shall, as far as possible, be remedied or otherwise compensated.

(4) The details are regulated by the laws.

More Information»
Saxony

Saxony

Constitution of the Free State of Saxony (1992)

December 72017

Section I, Article 10:

(1) The protection of the environment as a livelihood is, also in responsibility for future generations, duty of the country and obligation of all in the country. In particular, the land must protect the soil, the air and the water, animals and plants as well as the landscape as a whole including its growing settlement areas. It has to work towards the economical use and the recovery of raw materials and the economical use of energy and water.

(2) Recognized nature conservation associations have the right to participate in environmentally sound administrative procedures in accordance with the law. They have the right to sue in environmental matters; the closer determines a law.

(3) The State recognizes the right to enjoy natural beauties and recreation in the wild, as far as this does not conflict with the objectives of paragraph 1. Within this framework, the general public should be given access to mountains, forests, fields, lakes and rivers.

Section II, Article 34:

“Each person has the right to information about the data concerning the natural environment in their habitat, as far as they have been collected or stored by the Land and as far as not contrary to federal law, legally protected interests of third parties or overriding concerns of the general public.”

More Information»
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Constitution of the Land Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (1993)

November 302017

Section I, Part II,  Article 6:

“(3) Everyone has the right of access to information about the environment that exists in the public administration.”

Section I, Part III,  Article 12:

“(1) Land, municipalities and districts as well as the other public administration authorities protect and maintain the natural foundations of current and future life and the animals within the scope of their responsibilities. They have an effect on the economical use of natural goods.

(2) Land, municipalities and districts protect and care for the landscape with its natural beauties, forests, corridors and avenues, the inland waters and the coast with the lagoon and Bodden waters. Free access to them is guaranteed.

(3) Everyone is required to contribute to the achievement of the objectives of paragraphs 1 and 2. This applies in particular to agriculture, forestry and water management in their importance for landscape management.

(4) Interventions in nature and landscape should be avoided, damages from unavoidable interventions should be compensated, and any damage already incurred should, as far as possible, be remedied.

(5) The details are regulated by law.

More Information»
Brandenburg

Brandenburg

Constitution of the Land of Brandenburg (1992)

November 92017

Section VIII,  Article 39:

“(1) It is the duty of the Land and all persons to protect nature, the environment and the evolved man-made landscape as the basis for present and future life.

(2) Every person shall have the right to the protection of his physical integrity from injury and unreasonable danger arising from changes in the natural foundations of life.

(3) Animals and plants shall be respected as living beings. Species and species-appropriate habitats shall be preserved and protected.

(4) State environmental policy shall work towards the economical use and reuse of raw materials as well as the economical use of energy.

(5) Land, municipalities, associations of municipalities and other corporations under public law shall have a duty to protect the environment from damage or pollution and to ensure that environmental damage is eliminated or offset. Public and private projects shall require proof of their environmental compatibility. Property may be restricted if, contrary to law, the environment is seriously damaged or endangered by its use.

(6) The disposal of waste that is not created within the territory of the Land shall only be permitted in exceptional cases in consideration of the peculiarities of Berlin, and shall be ruled out insofar as its composition poses a specific danger to health or the environment. Details shall be regulated by a law.

(7) The Land, municipalities and associations of municipalities shall be obliged to collect and document information on current and expected pressures on the natural environment; owners and plant operators have a corresponding duty of disclosure. Every person shall have the right to this information, insofar as this does not conflict with overriding public or private interests. Details shall be regulated by a law.

(8) Legal action instituted by an association in the interests of its members or the public good shall be permitted. Recognised environmental associations shall have the right to participate in administrative procedures that affect the natural foundations of life. Details shall be regulated by a law.

(9) The Land shall work towards the aim that no atomic, biological or chemical weapons are developed, produced or stored on its territory.

More Information»
Albania

Albania

Constitution of the Republic of Albania (1998)

October 132017

Part 2, Chapter IV, Article 56:

“Everyone has the right to be informed about the status of the environment and its protection.”

Part 2, Chapter IV, Article 59:

“1. The state, within its constitutional powers and the means at its disposal, aims to supplement private initiative and responsibility with: . . .

d. a healthy and ecologically adequate environment for the present and future generations;

dh. rational exploitation of forests, waters, pastures and other natural resources on the basis of the principle of sustainable development;”

More Information»
Somalia

Somalia

Provisional Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia (2012)

October 122017

Chapter II, Title II, Article 25:

1. Every person has the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health and well-being, and to be protected from pollution and harmful materials.”

Chapter II, Title II, Article 27(1):

“Every person has the right to clean potable water.

Chapter III, Article 45:

“1. The Federal Government shall give priority to the protection, conservation, and preservation of the environment against anything that may cause harm to natural biodiversity and the ecosystem.

2. All people in the Federal Republic of Somalia have a duty to safeguard and enhance the environment and participate in the development, execution, management, conservation and protection of the natural resources and environment.

3. The Federal Government and the governments of the Federal Member States affected by environmental damage shall:

  • a. Take urgent measures to clean up hazardous waste dumped on the land or in the waters of the Federal Republic of Somalia;
  • b. Enact legislation and adopt urgent necessary measures to prevent the future dumping of waste in breach of international law and the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia;
  • c. Take necessary measures to obtain compensation from those responsible for any dumping of waste, whether they are in the Federal Republic of Somalia or elsewhere;
  • d. Take necessary measures to reverse desertification, deforestation and environmental degradation, and to conserve the environment and prevent activities that damage the natural resources and the environment of the nation.

4. In consultation with the Federal Member States, the Federal Government shall adopt general environmental policies for the Federal Republic of Somalia.”

Chapter V, Title I, Article 52(1e):

“The Federal Government and Federal Member State governments shall ensure that meetings between the Presidents of the Federal Member States and high ranking officials be held regularly to discuss issues that affect their territories, including:

e. The prevention of erosion and the protection of the environment;”

Chapter XV, Title I, Article 133(6b):

“In assigning a drafting project mentioned in Clause (5), the Oversight Committee shall prioritize the project as follows:…

b. Accord high priority to a project that aims at changing the behaviors that constitute a social problem concerning:

  • i. National security, public safety, the protection of basic human rights, or the environment;”
More Information»
Hawai’i

Hawai’i

The Constitution of the State of Hawaii (1978)

February 202017

Article XI, Section 9:

“Each person has the right to a clean and healthful environment, as defined by laws relating to environmental quality, including control of pollution and conservation, protection and enhancement of natural resources. Any person may enforce this right against any party, public or private, through appropriate legal proceedings, subject to reasonable limitations and regulation as provided by law.”

More Information»
Massachusetts

Massachusetts

Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1780)

February 72017

Article XCVII:

The people shall have the right to clean air and water, freedom from excessive and unnecessary noise, and the natural, scenic, historic, and esthetic qualities of their environment; and the protection of the people in their right to the conservation, development and utilization of the agricultural, mineral, forest, water, air and other natural resources is hereby declared to be a public purpose.

The general court shall have the power to enact legislation necessary or expedient to protect such rights.

In the furtherance of the foregoing powers, the general court shall have the power to provide for the taking, upon payment of just compensation therefor, or for the acquisition by purchase or otherwise, of lands and easements or such other interests therein as may be deemed necessary to accomplish these purposes.

Lands and easements taken or acquired for such purposes shall not be used for other purposes or otherwise disposed of except by laws enacted by a two thirds vote, taken by yeas and nays, of each branch of the general court.”

More Information»
Illinois

Illinois

Constitution of the State of Illinois (1970)

February 72017

Article XI, Section 1:

“The public policy of the State and the duty of each person is to provide and maintain a healthful environment for the benefit of this and future generations. The General Assembly shall provide by law for the implementation and enforcement of this public policy.”

Article XI, Section 2:

“Each person has the right to a healthful environment. Each person may enforce this right against any party, governmental or private, through appropriate legal proceedings subject to reasonable limitation and regulation as the General Assembly may provide by law.”

More Information»
Nepal

Nepal

Constitution of Nepal (2015)

September 282015

Part 3, 30:

“1. Each person shall have the right to live in a healthy and clean environment.

2. The victim of environmental pollution and degradation shall have the right to be compensated by the pollutant as provided for by law.

3. Provided that this Article shall not be deemed to obstruct the making of required legal provisions to strike a balance between environment and development for the use of national development works.”

Part 3, 35(4):

“Each citizen shall have the right to access to clean water and hygiene.”

Part 4, 51(g):

“The State shall pursue the following policies:…g. Policy regarding the conservation, management and use of natural resources:…5. The State shall pursue a policy of making a sustainable use of biodiversity through the conservation and management of forests, fauna and flora, and by minimizing the negative impacts of industrialization and physical development by promoting public awareness on environmental cleanliness and protection…7. The State shall pursue a policy of adopting appropriate ways of minimizing or stopping negative effects on environment if it is there, or if there is a possibility of such an impact on nature, environment, or biodiversity.”

More Information»
Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic

Constitution of the Dominican Republic (2010)

July 132014

Title I, Chapter IV, Article 15:

“Water constitutes an inalienable, imprescriptible strategic national patrimony for the use of the public that is not subject to seizure and is essential for life. Human consumption of water takes priority over any other use. The State shall promote the planning and implementation of effective policies for the protection of the water resources of the Nation.”

Title II, Chapter I, Section IV, Article 61(1):

“All persons have the right to integral health. Consequently:

1. The State should safeguard the protection of the health of all persons, access to potable water, improvement of nutrition, sanitation services, hygienic conditions, environmental cleanliness, as well as procure means for the prevention and treatment of all sicknesses, ensuring access to quality medication and giving medical and hospital assistance for free to those who need it.”

Title II, Chapter I, Section IV, Article 67:

“Preventing contamination, protecting and maintaining the environment for the enjoyment of present and future generations constitute duties of the State. Consequently:

1. All people have the right, both individually and collectively, to the use and sustainable enjoyment of natural resources, to live in an environment that is healthy, ecologically balanced, and adequate for the development and preservation of the different forms of life, scenery and nature.

2. The introduction, development, production, tenancy, commercialization, transportation, storage, and use of chemical, biological, nuclear, and agro-chemical weapons that are internationally banned is prohibited, as well as nuclear residues and toxic and dangerous waste.

3. The State shall promote, in the public and private sector, the use of alternative and non-contaminating technologies and energies.

4. In the contracts made by the State or in the permits that it grants that involve the use and exploitation of natural resources, it shall include consideration of the obligation to conserve the ecological equilibrium, the access to technology and its transference, as well as to reestablish the environment to its natural state, if it were to be changed.

5. The public powers shall prevent and control the factors of environmental deterioration, shall impose legal sanctions, the objective responsibility for damages caused to the environment and to natural resources, and shall demand their repair. Additionally, they shall cooperate with other nations in the protection of ecosystems for the length of the marine and land borders.”

More Information»
France

France

Constitution of the French Fifth Republic (1958)

July 132014

Charter for the Environment (2004), Article 7:

“Everyone has the right, subject to the conditions and within the limits defined by the law, to have access to the information relating to the environment held by the public authorities…”

“Everyone has the right, subject to the conditions and within the limits defined by the law … to participate in the making of public decisions which have an impact on the environment.”

Charter for the Environment(2005), Article 1:

“Everyone has the right to live in a stable environment which respects health.”

*This provision in the Charter of the Environment was grafted onto the
Constitution of the French Fifth Republic (1958) in 2005, when it gained
the status of a constitutional law.

Charter for the Environment (2004), Article 9:

“Research and innovation shall assist the preservation and utilization of the environment”

More Information»
Kenya

Kenya

Constitution of Kenya (2010)

July 132014

Chapter 4, Part 2, Article 42:

“Every person has the right to a clean and healthy environment, which includes the right a) to have the environment protected for the benefit of present and future generations through legislative and other measures, particularly those contemplated in Article 69; and (b) to have obligations relating to the environment fulfilled under Article 70.”

[Article 70 provides that any person may apply to a court for redress of damage to the environment.]

Chapter 4, Part 2, Article 43:

“1. Every person has the right- … (d.) to clean and safe water in adequate quantities;”

Chapter 4, Part 3, Article 56:

“The State shall put in place affirmative action programmes designed to ensure that minorities and marginalised groups- … (e.) have reasonable access to water, health services and infrastructure.”

Chapter 5, Part 2, Article 69:

“The State shall— (a) ensure sustainable exploitation, utilisation, management and conservation of the environment and natural resources, and ensure the equitable sharing of the accruing benefits; (b) work to achieve and maintain a tree cover of at least ten per cent of the land area of Kenya; (c) protect and enhance intellectual property in, and indigenous knowledge of, biodiversity and the genetic resources of the communities; (d) encourage public participation in the management, protection and conservation of the environment; (e) protect genetic resources and biological diversity; (f) establish systems of environmental impact assessment, environmental audit and monitoring of the environment; (g) eliminate processes and activities that are likely to endanger the environment; and (h) utilise the environment and natural resources for the benefit of the people of Kenya….”

 

More Information»
Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan

Constitution of Turkmenistan (2008)

July 122014

Section II, Article 53:

“Everyone shall have the right to enabling environment for life and health, credible information on its state, compensation of damage caused to health and property as a result of violation of environmental law or natural disasters. The state shall control the rational use of natural resources in order to protect and improve healthy living conditions, as well as conservation of the stable natural environment. Everyone shall be obliged to protect nature, take good care of the environment and natural wealth.”

More Information»
Kosovo

Kosovo

Constitution of The Republic of Kosovo (2008)

July 122014

Chapter I, Article 7:

“The constitutional order of the Republic of Kosovo is based on the principles of freedom, peace, democracy, equality, respect for human rights and freedoms and the rule of law, non-discrimination, the right to property, the protection of environment, social justice, pluralism, separation of state powers, and a market economy.”

Chapter II, Article 52(2) and (3):

“2. Everyone should be provided an opportunity to be heard by public institutions and have their opinions considered on issues that impact the environment in which they live.  3. The impact on the environment shall be considered by public institutions in their decision making processes.”

More Information»
Serbia

Serbia

Constitution of the Republic of Serbia (2006)

July 122014

Part II, Section 2, Article 74:

“Everyone shall have the right to healthy environment and the right to timely and full information about the state of environment.

Everyone, especially the Republic of Serbia and autonomous provinces, shall be accountable for the protection of environment.”

More Information»
Montenegro

Montenegro

Constitution of Montenegro (2007)

July 122014

Part 2, Article 23:

“Everyone shall have the right to a sound environment.

Everyone shall have the right to receive timely and full information about the status of the environment, to influence the decision-making regarding the issues of importance for the environment, and to legal protection of these rights.

Everyone, the state in particular, shall be bound to preserve and improve the environment.”

 

More Information»
Colombia

Colombia

Constitution of the Republic of Colombia (1991)

July 112014

Title II, Chapter 3, Article 79:

“Every individual has the right to enjoy a healthy environment. . . .”

“. . . The law will guarantee the community’s participation in the decisions that may affect it. . . .”

“. . . It is the duty of the state to protect the diversity and integrity of the environment, to conserve the areas of special ecological importance, and to foster education for the achievement of these ends.”

Title II, Chapter 3, Article 80:

“The State will plan the handling and use of natural resources in order to guarantee their sustainable development, conservation, restoration, or replacement. Additionally, it will have to caution and control the factors of environmental deterioration, impose legal sanctions, and demand the repair of any damage caused. In the same way, it will cooperate with other nations in the protection of the ecosystems located in the border areas.”

More Information»
Brazil

Brazil

Constitution of the Federative Republic of Brazil (1988)

July 112014

Title II, Chapter I, Article 5, Paragraph LXXIII:

“[A]ny citizen has standing to bring a popular action to annul an act injurious to the public patrimony or the patrimony of an entity in which the State participates … to the environment ….”

Title VIII, Chapter VI, Article 225:

“Everyone has the right to an ecologically balanced environment, which is a public good for the people’s use and is essential for a healthy life. The Government and community have a duty to defend and to preserve the environment for present and future generations.”

Title VIII, Chapter VI, Article 225:

“§1°. To assure the effectiveness of this right, it is the responsibility of the Government to:

I. preserve and restore essential ecological processes and provide for ecological management of species and ecosystems;

II. preserve the diversity and integrity of the Country’s genetic patrimony and to supervise entities dedicated to research and manipulation of genetic material;

III. define, in all units of the Federation, territorial spaces and their components that are to be specially protected, with any change or suppression permitted only through law, prohibiting any use that compromises the integrity of the characteristics that justify their protection;

IV. require, as provided by law, a prior environmental impact study, which shall be made public, for installation of works or activities that may cause significant degradation of the environment;

V. control production, commercialization and employment of techniques, methods and substances that carry a risk to life, the quality of life and the environment;

VI. promote environmental education at all levels of teaching and public awareness of the need to preserve the environment;

VII. protect the fauna and the flora, prohibiting, as provided by law, all practices that jeopardize their ecological functions, cause extinction of species or subject animals to cruelty.

§2°. Those who exploit mineral resources are obligated to restore any environmental degradation, in accordance with technical solutions required by the proper governmental agencies, as provided by law.

§3°. Conduct and activities considered harmful to the environment shall subject the violators, be they individuals or legal entities, to criminal and administrative sanctions, irrespective of the obligation to repair the damages caused.

§4°. The Brazilian Amazonian Forest, the Atlantic Forest, the Serra do Mar, the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, and the Coastal Zone are part of the national patrimony, and they shall be utilized, as provided by law, under conditions assuring preservation of the environment, including use of natural resources.

§5°. Lands necessary to protect natural ecosystems, which are vacant or which have reverted to the States through discriminatory actions, are inalienable.

§6°. Power plants with nuclear reactors shall be located as defined in federal law and may not be installed otherwise.”

More Information»
Mozambique

Mozambique

Constitution of the Republic of Mozambique (2004)

July 92014

Title III, Chapter IV, Article 81:

“1. All citizens shall have the right to popular action in accordance with the law, either personally or through associations for defending the interests in question.

2. The right of popular action shall consist of:

(a) the right to claim for the injured party or parties such compensation as they are entitled to;

(b) The right to advocate the prevention, termination or judicial prosecution of offenses against the public health, consumer rights, environmental conservation and cultural heritage.”

Title III, Chapter V, Article 90:

“1. All citizens shall have the right to live in a balanced environment and shall have the duty to defend it. 

2. The State and the local authorities, with collaboration from associations for environmental protection, shall adopt policies to protect the environment and shall promote the rational use of all natural resources.”

More Information»
Ukraine

Ukraine

Constitution Of Ukraine (2004)

July 92014

Chapter I, Article 13:

“The land, its mineral wealth, atmosphere, water and other natural resources within the territory of Ukraine, the natural resources of its continental shelf, and the exclusive (maritime) economic zone, are objects of the right of property of the Ukrainian people. Ownership rights on behalf of the Ukrainian people are exercised by bodies of state power and bodies of local self-government within the limits determined by this Constitution.

Every citizen has the right to utilise the natural objects of the people’s right of property in accordance with the law.”

Chapter II, Article 50:

“Everyone has the right to an environment that is safe for life and health, and to compensation for damages inflicted through the violation of this right. Everyone is guaranteed the right of free access to information about the environmental situation, the quality of food and consumer goods, and also the right to disseminate such information. No one shall make such information secret.”

More Information»
Costa Rica

Costa Rica

Constitution of Costa Rica (1949)

July 92014

Title V, Article 50:

“The State will procure the greatest well-being to all the inhabitants of the country, organizing and stimulating production and the most adequate distribution [reparto] of the wealth.

All persons have the right to a healthy and ecologically balanced environment. For that, they are legitimated to denounce the acts that infringe this right and to claim reparation for the damage caused.

The State will guarantee, will defend and will preserve this right. The Law will determine the responsibilities and corresponding sanctions.

Every person has the human, basic and non-renounceable right of access to potable water, as an essential material for life. Water is an asset of the nation, essential to protect such human right. Its use, protection, sustainability, conservation and exploitation will be governed by that which the law created for these effects establishes[,] and the supply of potable water for consumption by persons and the populations will have priority.”
More Information»
Georgia

Georgia

The Constitution of Georgia (2003)

July 92014

Chapter One, Article 5(5):

“The State shall take care of environmental protection and the rational use of natural resources.”

Chapter Two, Article 29(1):

“Everyone has the right to live in a healthy environment and enjoy the natural environment and public space. Everyone has the right to receive full information about the state of the environment in a timely manner. Everyone has the right to care for the protection of the environment. The right to participate in the adoption of decisions related to the environment shall be ensured by law.”

More Information»
Bolivia

Bolivia

Political Constitution of the State (2009)

July 92014

Preamble:

“A State based on respect and equality for all…and on collective coexistence with access to water…”

Title I, Chapter II, Article 9:

“The following are essential purposes and functions of the State, in addition to those established in the Constitution and the law: To promote and guarantee the responsible and planned use of natural resources, and to stimulate their industrialization through the development and strengthening of the productive base in its different dimensions and levels, as well as to preserve the environment for the welfare of present and future generations.”

Title II, Chapter II, Article 16:

“I. Every person has the right to water…”

Title II, Chapter II, Article 20:

“I. Every person has the right to universal and equitable access to basic services of potable water, sewer systems, electricity, gas services in their domicile, postal, and telecommunications services.

III. Access to water and sewer systems are human rights, neither are the object of concession or privatization, and are subject to a regimen of licensing and registration, in accordance with the law.”

Title II, Chapter V, Section I, Article 33:

“Everyone has the right to a healthy, protected, and balanced environment. The exercise of this right must be granted to individuals and collectives of present and future generations, as well as to other living things, so they may develop in a normal and permanent way..”

Title II, Chapter V, Section I, Article 34:

“Any person, in his own right or on behalf of a collective, is authorized to take legal actions in defense of environmental rights, without prejudice to the obligation of public institutions to act on their own in the face of attacks on the environment.”

 

 

More Information»
Czech Republic

Czech Republic

Constitution of the Czech Republic (1993)

July 82014

Chapter I, Article 7:

“The state shall concern itself with the prudent use of its natural resources and the protection of its natural wealth.”

Division 2, Chapter 4, Article 35(1):

“Everyone has the right to a favorable environment.”

Division 2, Chapter 4, Article 35(2):

“Everyone has the right to timely and complete information about the state of the environment and natural resources.”

Division 2, Chapter 4, Article 35(3):

“No one may, in exercising her rights, endanger or cause damage to the environment, natural resources, the wealth of natural species, or cultural monuments beyond the extent designated by law.”

More Information»
Latvia

Latvia

Constitution of the Republic of Latvia (1998)

July 42014

Chapter VIII, Article 115:

“The state shall protect the right of everyone to live in a benevolent environment, by providing information about environmental conditions and by promoting the preservation and improvement of the environment.”

More Information»
North Macedonia

North Macedonia

Constitution of the Republic of Macedonia (1991)

July 42014

Part I, Article 8:

“The fundamental values of the constitutional order of the Republic of Macedonia are:proper urban and rural planning to promote a congenial human environment, as well as ecological protection and development;”

Part II, Section 2, Article 43:

“Everyone has the right to a healthy environment to live in.

Everyone is obliged to promote and protect the environment.

The Republic provides conditions for the exercise of the right of citizens to a healthy environment.”

Part II, Section 4, Article 55:

“…The freedom of the market and entrepreneurship can be restricted by law only for reasons of the defence of the Republic, protection of the natural and living environment or public health.”

Part X, Amendment XVII:

“1. In units of local self-government, citizens directly and through representatives participate in decision-making on issues of local relevance particularly in the fields of public services, urban and rural planning, environmental protection, local economic development, local finances, communal activities, culture, sport, social security and child care, education, health care and other fields determined by law.

2. In the city of Skopje the citizens directly and through representatives participate in decision-making on issues of relevance to the city of Skopje, particularly in the fields of public services, urban and rural planning, environmental protection, local economic development, local finances, communal activities, culture, sport, social security and child care, education, health care and other fields determined by law.”

More Information»
Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso

The Constitution of Burkina Faso (1991)

July 32014

Title I, Chapter IV, Article 29:

“The right to a healthy environment is recognized; the protection, the defense and the promotion of the environment are a duty for all.”

Title I, Chapter IV, Article 30:

“Every citizen has the right to initiate an action or to join a collective action under the form of a petition against the acts … affecting the environment or the cultural or historic patrimony.”

More Information»
Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan

The Constitution of the Azerbaijan Republic (1995)

June 302014

Second Part, Chapter III, Article 39, Section 1:

“Everyone has the right to live in a healthy environment.”

Second Part, Chapter III, Article 39, Section 2:

“Everyone has the right to collect information on the environmental situation and to get compensation for damage rendered to the health and property due to the violation of ecological rights.”

Second Part, Chapter III, Article 39, Section 3:

“No one may cause threat or damage to the environment and natural resources beyond the limits set by law.”

Second Part, Chapter III, Article 39, Section 4:

“The state guarantees the preservation of ecological balance and protection of the species of wild plants and animals determined by law.”

More Information»
Norway

Norway

Constitution of the Kingdom of Norway (1990)

June 262014

Part E, Article 112:

“Every person has a right to an environment that is conducive to health and to natural surroundings whose productivity and diversity are preserved. Natural resources should be made use of on the basis of comprehensive long-term considerations whereby this right will be safeguarded for future generations as well. In order to safeguard their right in accordance with the foregoing paragraph, citizens are entitled to be informed of the state of the natural environment and of the effects of any encroachments on nature that are planned or commenced. The State authorities shall issue further provisions for the implementation of these principles.”

More Information»
Argentina

Argentina

Constitution of the Argentine Nation (1994)

June 32014

Part I, Chapter II, Section 41:

All inhabitants enjoy the right to a healthful, balanced environment fit for human development, so that productive activities satisfy current needs without compromising those of future generations, and have the duty to preserve the environment. Environmental damage shall generate as a priority the obligation to repair it under the terms that the law shall establish.

The authorities shall provide for the protection of this right, for the rational use of natural resources, for the preservation of the natural and cultural patrimony and of biological diversity, and for information and education on the environment.”

More Information»
Ethiopia

Ethiopia

Constitution of The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (1994)

March 22014

Chapter Three, Part Two, Article 44(1):

“All persons have the right to a clean and healthy environment.”

Chapter Ten, Article 92:

“1. Government shall endeavor to ensure that all Ethiopians live in a clean and healthy environment.

2. The design and implementation of programmes and projects of development shall not damage or destroy the environment.

3. People have the right to full consultation and to the expression of views in the planning and implementations of environmental policies and projects that affect them directly.

4. Government and citizens shall have the duty to protect the environment.” 

More Information»
Moldova

Moldova

Constitution of the Republic of Moldova (1994)

March 22014

Chapter I, Title II, Article 37(1):

“1. Every human being has the right to live in an environment that is ecologically safe for life and
health, to obtain healthy food products and harmless household appliances.”

Chapter I, Title II, Article 37(2):

“2. The State guarantees every person the right of free access to truthful information regarding the state of the natural environment, the living and working conditions and the quality of food products and household goods.”

Chapter I, Title IV, Article 126(2f):

“The State must ensure:…f. the restoration and protection of the environment and the maintenance of ecological balance.”

More Information»
Belarus

Belarus

Constitution of the Republic of Belarus (1994)

March 22014

Section II, Article 34:

“Citizens of the Republic of Belarus shall be guaranteed the right to receive, store and disseminate complete, reliable, and timely information of the activities of state bodies and public associations … on the state of the environment.”

Section II, Article 34:

“State bodies, public associations and officials shall afford citizens of the Republic of Belarus with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with material that affects their rights and legitimate interests.”

Section II, Article 46:

“Everyone shall be entitled to a conducive environment and to compensation for loss or damage caused by the violation of this right.” 

Section II, Article 46:

“The State shall supervise the rational utilization of natural resources to protect and improve living conditions, and to preserve and restore the environment.” 

More Information»
Ecuador

Ecuador

Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador (1984)

March 22014

Title II, Chapter 2, Section 1, Article 12:

“The human right to water is essential and cannot be waived. Water constitutes a national strategic asset for use by the public and it is unalienable, not subject to a statute of limitations, immune from seizure and essential for life.”

Title II, Chapter 2, Section 2, Article 15:

“The State shall promote, in the public and private sectors, the use of environmentally clean technologies and nonpolluting and low-impact alternative sources of energy. Energy sovereignty shall not be achieved to the detriment of food sovereignty nor shall it affect the right to water.”

Title II, Chapter 2, Section 7, Article 32:

“Health is a right guaranteed by the State and whose fulfilment is linked to the exercise of other rights, among which the right to water, food, education, sports, work, social security, healthy environments and others that support the good way of living.”

Title II, Chapter 6, Article 66(2):

“The following rights of persons are recognised and guaranteed:…The right to a decent life that ensures health, food and nutrition, clean water, housing, environmental sanitation, education, work, employment, rest and leisure, sports, clothing, social security and other necessary social services.”

Title II, Chapter 7, Article 71:

“Nature, or Pacha Mama, where life is reproduced and occurs, has the right to integral respect for its existence and for the maintenance and regeneration of its life cycles, structure, functions and evolutionary processes.

All persons, communities, peoples and nations can call upon public authorities to enforce the rights of nature. To enforce and interpret these rights, the principles set forth in the Constitution shall be observed, as appropriate.

The State shall give incentives to natural persons and legal entities and to communities to protect nature and to promote respect for all the elements comprising an ecosystem.”

More Information»
Russian Federation

Russian Federation

Constitution of the Russian Federation (1993)

February 242014

Section One, Chapter 1, Article 9:

“Land and other natural resources shall be utilized and protected in the Russian Federation as the basis of life and activity of the people living in corresponding territories.”

Section One, Chapter 2, Article 42:

“Everyone shall have the right to a favorable environment [and] reliable information on the state of the environment and compensation for damage caused to his (her) health and property by violations of environmental laws.”

 

More Information»
Angola

Angola

Constitutional Law of the Republic of Angola (1992)

February 182014

Chapter II, Section I, Article 39, Section 1:

“All citizens shall have the right to live in a healthy and unpolluted environment and the duty to defend and preserve it.”

Chapter II, Section I, Article 24, Section 2:

“The State shall take the requisite measures to protect the environment and national species of flora and fauna throughout the national territory and maintain ecological balance, ensure the correct location of economic activities and the rational development and use of all natural resources, within the context of sustainable development, respect for the rights of future generations and the preservation of species.”

Chapter II, Section I, Article 39, Section 3:

“Acts that endanger or damage conservation of the environment shall be punishable by law.”

Chapter II, Section II, Article 74:

“Every citizen, either individually or through associations representing specific interests, shall have the right to take legal action in the cases and under the terms established by law, with the aim of annulling acts which are harmful to…the environment.” 

More Information»
Paraguay

Paraguay

Constitution of the Republic of Paraguay (1992)

February 182014

Title I, Section II, Article 7:

“Everyone has the right to live in a healthy, ecologically balanced environment.”

Title I, Section II, Article 8:

“A law will define and establish sanctions for ecological crimes. Any damage to the environment will entail an obligation to restore and to pay for damages.”

Title I, Section II, Article 7:

“The preservation, recovery, and improvement of the environment, as well as efforts to reconcile these goals with comprehensive human development, are priority objectives …”

More Information»
Chile

Chile

Political Constitution of the Republic of Chile (1980)

October 22013

Chapter 3, Article 19:

“The Constitution guarantees to all persons:…(8) The right to live in an environment free of contamination. It is the duty of the State to ensure that this right is not jeopardized and to promote the preservation of nature. The law may establish specific restrictions on the exercise of certain rights or freedoms to protect the environment.”

Chapter 3, Article 20:

“He who should, due to arbitrary or illegal acts or omissions suffers deprivation, disruption or threat in the legitimate exercise of the rights and guaranties established in article 19…may personally, or through anyone on his behalf, resort to the respective Court of Appeals, which shall immediately take the measures it deems necessary to restore the rule of law and ensure the due protection of the affected party, notwithstanding the other rights that he may assert before the authority or the corresponding courts.

Likewise, the remedy of protection will also proceed in the case of number 8 of article 19, when the right to live in a pollution-free environment is affected by an unlawful act or omission attributable to a specific authority or person.”

More Information»
Portugal

Portugal

Constitution of the Portuguese Republic (1976)

September 302013

Part I, Title II, Chapter 2, Article 52, Section 3a:

“Everyone shall be granted the right of actio popularis, to include the right to apply for the appropriate compensation for an aggrieved party or parties, in such cases and under such terms as the law may determine, either personally or via associations that purport to defend the interests in question. The said right shall particularly be exercised in order to: a. Promote…the preservation of the environment”

Part I, Title III, Chapter 2, Article 66:

“1. Everyone shall possess the right to a healthy and ecologically balanced human living environment and the duty to defend it.

2. In order to ensure enjoyment of the right to the environment within an overall framework of sustainable development, acting via appropriate bodies and with the involvement and participation of citizens, the state shall be charged with:

a. Preventing and controlling pollution and its effects and the harmful forms of erosion;

b. Conducting and promoting town and country planning with a view to a correct location of activities, balanced social and economic development and the enhancement of the landscape;

c. Creating and developing natural and recreational reserves and parks and classifying and protecting landscapes and places, in such a way as to guarantee the conservation of nature and the preservation of cultural values and assets that are of historic or artistic interest;

d. Promoting the rational use of natural resources, while safeguarding their ability to renew themselves and maintain ecological stability, with respect for the principle of inter-generational solidarity;

e. Acting in cooperation with local authorities, promoting the environmental quality of rural settlements and urban life, particularly on the architectural level and as regards the protection of historic zones;

f. Promoting the integration of environmental objectives into the various policies of a sectoral nature;

g. Promoting environmental education and respect for environmental values;

h. Ensuring that fiscal policy renders development compatible with the protection of the environment and the quality of life.”

More Information»
All Listing Types All Locations Any Rating

Listing Results

  • Thuringia

    Thuringia

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy

    Read more
  • Saxony-Anhalt

    Saxony-Anhalt

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy

    Read more
  • Saxony

    Saxony

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy

    Read more
  • Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy

    Read more
  • Brandenburg

    Brandenburg

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy

    Read more
  • Albania

    Albania

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy

    Read more
  • Somalia

    Somalia

    Procedural Right, Right to Water, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Hawai’i

    Hawai’i

    Procedural Right, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Massachusetts

    Massachusetts

    Procedural Right, Right to Water, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Illinois

    Illinois

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Nepal

    Nepal

    Procedural Right, Right to Water, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Dominican Republic

    Dominican Republic

    Procedural Right, Right to Water, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • France

    France

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Kenya

    Kenya

    Procedural Right, Right to Water, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Turkmenistan

    Turkmenistan

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Kosovo

    Kosovo

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy

    Read more
  • Serbia

    Serbia

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Montenegro

    Montenegro

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Colombia

    Colombia

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Brazil

    Brazil

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Mozambique

    Mozambique

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Ukraine

    Ukraine

    Procedural Right, Right to Water, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Costa Rica

    Costa Rica

    Procedural Right, Right to Water, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Georgia

    Georgia

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Bolivia

    Bolivia

    Procedural Right, Right to Water, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Czech Republic

    Czech Republic

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Latvia

    Latvia

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • North Macedonia

    North Macedonia

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Burkina Faso

    Burkina Faso

    Procedural Right, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Azerbaijan

    Azerbaijan

    Procedural Right, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Norway

    Norway

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Argentina

    Argentina

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Ethiopia

    Ethiopia

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Moldova

    Moldova

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Belarus

    Belarus

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Ecuador

    Ecuador

    Procedural Right, Right of Nature, Right to Water, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Russian Federation

    Russian Federation

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Angola

    Angola

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Paraguay

    Paraguay

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Chile

    Chile

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more
  • Portugal

    Portugal

    Procedural Right, Statement of Public Policy, Substantive Right

    Read more