Summary

In the present report, the Special Rapporteur on the issue of human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment describes good practices followed by States in recognizing the right to live in a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment and in implementing the procedural and substantive elements of the right. This fundamental human right is now recognized in law by more than 80 per cent (156 out of 193) of States Members of the United Nations. The procedural elements are access to information, public participation, and access to justice and effective remedies. The substantive elements include clean air, a safe climate, access to safe water and adequate sanitation, healthy and sustainably produced food, non-toxic environments in which to live, work, study and play, and healthy biodiversity and ecosystems. In the context of the global environmental crisis, accelerated diffusion and adoption of good practices to protect human rights is imperative.