Introductory chapter ‘New Vistas in Natural Resources Law’ provides a synthesized overview of constituent diverse chapters exploring legal aspects in various sectors. Beginning with biodiversity conservation and cross-border perspectives in Canada and the United States, the chapters delve into specialized areas such as climate change mitigation through forest governance in the European Union, wildlife conflicts in Brazilian semi-arid regions, and human rights-based conservation initiatives. They extend to comparative studies of biopesticide and biofertilizer regulations in India, Canada, and Ukraine, emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices. Furthermore, they examine the United States National Park System, policy-making in Mediterranean and Eurasian pastoral areas, and legal definitions of gemological objects in Ukraine. Through interdisciplinary analyses, these chapters dissect intricate legal frameworks, propose reforms, and address challenges in diverse fields such as forestry, agriculture, conservation, rangelands, and mining. They advocate for comprehensive approaches to environmental and resource management, stressing the importance of integrating Indigenous knowledge, community participation, and human rights principles. Overall, the composition of the book encapsulates a rich tapestry of legal research spanning global and regional contexts, highlighting the complexities and opportunities in navigating legal landscapes to promote sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and equitable resource governance.
Natural resources; Law; Environment; Participation; Policy; Legal frameworks
Hasrat Arjjumend, ‘New Vistas in Natural Resources Law’ in Hasrat Arjjumend (ed.), New Vistas in Natural Resources Law (TGI Books/ The Grassroots Institute, Montreal/Vancouver, Canada, 2024), pp. 1-25, ISBN: 978-1-7778455-3-7. Doi: https://doi.org/10.33002/enrlaw-09/c1
Open Access. Copyright © 2024 the author(s), published by TGI Books/ The Grassroots Institute. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution- Non Commercial - No Derivatives 4.0 International License.
Open Access
The book "New Vistas in Natural Resources Law" is a pioneering exploration into the dynamic and multifaceted realm of environmental governance, cantered around crucial keywords such as Environmental Law, Natural Resources Management, Forest Laws, Biodiversity Laws, Indigenous Peoples, Conservation Policies, Rangeland Policies, Environmental Policy, Agrarian & Land Laws, and Mining Related Laws. Authored by experts at the intersection of law and environmental science, this comprehensive volume offers a panoramic view of the evolving legal landscape governing our planet's vital natural resources.
The book commences with an in-depth analysis of Forest Laws, establishing the foundational principles that guide the intricate relationship between human activity and the environment. It scrutinizes international conventions, regional agreements, and domestic legal frameworks, illustrating how these instruments shape the sustainable management of natural resources on a global scale. A focal point of the narrative is Natural Resources Management, exploring the complexities of balancing resource utilization with the imperative of conservation. The book investigates innovative strategies for managing diverse ecosystems, ranging from forests to rangelands, and delves into the legal frameworks that underpin sustainable practices. Forest Laws and Biodiversity Laws are dissected in separate chapters, providing a detailed examination of legal instruments designed to protect and preserve these critical components of our natural heritage. The book assesses the effectiveness of legislation in addressing deforestation, biodiversity loss, and the protection of endangered species.
The rights and contributions of Indigenous Peoples take centre stage as the book explores how legal frameworks intersect with traditional knowledge and land use practices. It critically examines the evolving legal landscape that recognizes and safeguards the rights of indigenous communities in the context of natural resources management. Conservation Policies and Rangeland Policies are explored as integral components of environmental governance, shedding light on the legal strategies employed to balance the needs of agriculture, conservation, and sustainable land use. Environmental Policy emerges as a cross-cutting theme, with the book examining the development, implementation, and impact of policies aimed at addressing pressing environmental challenges. It evaluates the role of legal frameworks in shaping policy decisions and fostering effective environmental management.
Agrarian & Land Laws are scrutinized for their role in shaping land use practices and mitigating conflicts arising from competing interests. The book investigates how legal instruments can balance the needs of agriculture, urban development, and conservation.
The legal dimensions of mining-related activities take centre stage, addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by extractive industries. The book explores the role of law in regulating mining practices, mitigating environmental impacts, and ensuring responsible resource extraction.
"New Vistas in Natural Resources Law" is a timely and authoritative work that not only captures the current state of natural resources law but also anticipates emerging challenges and opportunities. With its interdisciplinary approach, this book serves as an indispensable resource for legal scholars, policymakers, environmental scientists, and anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between law and the sustainable management of our planet's natural resources.
Arjjumend, H. (ed.) (2024). New Vistas in Natural Resources Law. Montreal/Vancouver, Canada: The Grassroots Institute, ISBN: 978-1-7778455-3-7. Doi: https://doi.org/10.33002/enrlaw-09