Model law for the recognition of Nature's rights

The second legislative model developed within the LUMEN project, following the University of Trieste’s River Rights Declaration, promotes the recognition of Nature as a subject of rights and the protection of its ecological integrity. Prepared by experts Vito Comar from the Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados and Silvia Bagni from the University of Bologna research unit, the Model is designed to be integrated into municipal policies and regulations, aiming to foster a respectful and sustainable relationship between humans and the natural environment.

The document is structured in three main parts: a preamble that outlines principles inspired by the Constitution and local traditional knowledge; a central section enumerating the fundamental rights of Nature, including the right to exist, regenerate, be restored, and remain free from contamination; and a final section defining the duties of public authorities, implementation tools, the valorization of traditional knowledge, and the legal responsibilities of involved parties.

The Model serves as both a legal and educational tool, aimed at ensuring the protection of Nature, promoting ecological sustainability, intercultural citizen participation, and an empathetic civic awareness toward the natural environment.