ECOLOGICAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS ASPECTS OF NATIONAL AND LOCAL DECISION-MAKING

Abstract

Climate change, such as rising temperatures and changing weather patterns, has certain consequences associated with the loss of individuals’ favorable physical and mental health or productivity. The authors mention some important factors such as extreme heat waves, air mass movement, changed precipitation patterns, and global warming, and their impact on the health status of Europe’s population, namely increases in cardiovascular, respiratory and some infectious diseases. Consequences like worsening of food security, economic inequality and the situation of vulnerable groups have also been addressed. The article discusses the interconnectedness of environmental degradation and human rights violations as well as the international and European legal framework of the interrelationship between human rights and the environment. Emphasizing a rights-based focus, the article highlights the core position of national and local authorities in fostering environmental accountability while defending human rights. The article also touches upon the general social implications of climate change, i.e., how it is disproportionately impacting children, the elderly, and vulnerable groups. It examines how national and subnational governments can address these impacts through innovative policy, legal reform, and multi-level governance approaches. Examples include the Climate City Contract 2030 in Stockholm and throughout Europe, demonstrating the promise of cooperative and adaptive governance approaches to addressing sustainable development challenges. The relationship between the environment and human rights protection within the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms as a relevant part of international law is discussed, as an attempt to contribute to the improvement of environmental protection on the national and local fronts. This study aims to holistically examine the interface between environmental law and protection of human rights based on an integration of historical, rational and comparative methods and analysis of statistical data. Leaning on national and international law regimes, the study aims to provide support in designing strategies to address the environmental and human rights challenges brought about by climate change. This approach centers on the requirement for a shared vision that unites sustainability and justice, equity and human dignity.