Rights of Nature

Seeking to protect and represent the natural world is the idea of Rights of Nature

Image of a hill side by the water
Photo by George Potter/ Unsplash
illustration of bird

The 'Rights of Nature' concept suggests that Nature, including ecosystems and species, should possess legal rights and the capacity to engage in the legal system through human representatives. This perspective is rooted in an ecocentric philosophy that acknowledges humans as one interconnected component of a vast ecological network, recognizing the intrinsic value of the non-human world beyond its utility to humans. Moreover, it emphasizes that human health and wellbeing are deeply connected to the health of the rest of Nature.

Rights of Nature in Our Work

This idea underpins much of what we do. It forms our basic orientation with regards to Nature and is part of understanding our place in the world. We conduct research on topics relating to the Rights of Nature and are involved in advocacy to further the realisation of Rights of Nature in the UK. We offer support to groups, organisations and campaigns looking to realise and defend the Rights of Nature. Our work on Nature-positive governance is about encouraging businesses to internalise a Rights of Nature approach in their organisation.

illustrated flower scene