ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an introduction to the definition, development and application of environmental law, and its implications, specifically in relation to the development of the green economy. Environmental policy decisions have implications for the environment and the people that reside within, or rely upon, that environment. It considers the perspective of social justice and environmental law. Private law, which involves relationships between individuals, and is relevant to issues such as nuisance and property law. Public law, which addresses the relationships between individuals and the government, as well the relationships between individuals that are of concern to society. Criminal law, which relates to environmental crime; examples include offences relating to the pollution of water courses. An economic perspective is concerned with making rational decisions based on the relative costs and benefits of different options. European Union (EU) law tends to adopt a purposive approach and often defines specific standards in relation to environmental quality and emission levels.
