Criminological Analysis of Crimes Against the Environment (Ecocide) With a Legal Approach

Abstract

This article examines the concept of ecocide as a serious crime in the context of global environmental protection. Amidst intensifying environmental concerns, the discourse on establishing ecocide as an international criminal offence is gaining momentum. Abstract Implications The potential challenges and benefits of adopting this transformative perspective Ecocide refers to widespread and irreversible environmental damage caused primarily by human activities. This article examines the rationale behind the designation of ecocide as a serious crime and emphasizes the need to hold individuals, companies and even nations accountable for actions that lead to widespread environmental destruction. By legally classifying ecocides as a crime, the international community can provide a more compelling deterrent to actions that undermine the global ecological balance. However, the global implementation of ecocide as a crime faces significant obstacles. This article addresses the challenges of defining the scope of ecocide, distinguishing it from existing environmental crimes, and establishing generally applicable prosecution criteria. It also examines the complexities of enforcement given the diversity of geopolitical contexts and varying degrees of environmental impact around the world. The potential benefits of recognizing ecocide as a crime are profound. It could trigger a paradigm shift in public and corporate consciousness, fostering a sense of responsibility and encouraging sustainable practices. The prospect of legal consequences may motivate innovative approaches to preventing environmental damage and facilitating restoration efforts. It could also strengthen the global commitment to environmental protection by placing it alongside other serious international crimes.