ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book aims to compare the development of mediation in the context of environmental disputes across different countries or jurisdictions in order to learn from successes and failures and to stimulate, hopefully, the evolution of environmental mediation worldwide. It explores the legal framework of environmental mediation, which includes the judicial, administrative and private procedures and the criteria for accreditation of mediators. The book also presents an overview of the causes and issues that give rise to environmental conflicts and the different ways available to resolve those disputes including the alternative means of dispute resolution. It also explores practical experiences while analyzing the efficiency of different mediation processes. The book provides a thorough analysis of the complaint letters and visits system in China which is consideres a sound and valuable vehicle for peaceful and efficient resolution of environmental disputes.
