ENFORCING THE RIGHT TO A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT: GREAT BRITAIN'S EXPERIENCE

Abstract

The article examines the experience of Great Britain regarding the development and implementation of the right to a healthy natural environment into national legislation. It was established that from a legal point of view the recognition of the right to a healthy natural environment has significant procedural consequences. Taking as a guide the implementation of the right to a healthy natural environment by national jurisdictions, most states have adopted legislation that defines the procedural and material elements that allow the effective implementation of this right. It is indicated that, on the one hand, recognition of the right to a healthy natural environment often involves the defense of procedural rights, such as the right to receive information, to participate in decision-making on environmental issues, and to obtain access to justice. Along with procedural rights, the right to a healthy natural environment also includes a material component. By definition, the right to a healthy natural environment, regardless of its precise wording, protects the elements of the natural environment that support a dignified life. It provides for the preservation of basic human rights, such as the right to life, clean water, food, etc. It is concluded that the UN has set a significant advantage in recognizing the right to nature by recognizing the right to a healthy natural environment. This is certainly an important legal factor for restoring nature for its own sake. It is appropriate for the UK government to recognize the new resolution and take measures for domestic implementation. These steps will not simply recognize the right to a healthy natural environment, but will set a goal and create the prerequisites for its realization. They will give reasons to position Great Britain as one of the progressive countries that have taken measures so that everyone can realize the right to a healthy natural environment.