ABSTRACT
Constitutions have a superordinate importance in the governance, politics and social consciousness of a nation. An ecological constitution – one that makes a serious, scientific attempt to sustain natural systems (including human society) over time – has the potential to catalyse transformative change in national legal, political and economic systems. This chapter argues that, at a minimum, an ecological approach to constitutionalism would codify: the principle of sustainability; the human right to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment, the doctrines of intergenerational equity and the public trust; rights of nature; the precautionary principle and non-regression; and rights and obligations relating to a healthy climate. The incorporation of some or all of these principles in domestic constitutions around the world would be a huge step in the journey towards sustainability. The chapter concludes by underlining the importance of effective governance mechanisms to implement ecological constitutionalism throughout all fields and levels of state decision-making.
