Valuing Nature’s Rights

Nature is the foundation of our society and economy. Yet, our social habits and economic systems have tendencies to undermine and discount this fundamental belief. Hence, to ensure the resiliency and health of our Natural world that is inexplicitly linked to our well-being, a modification of our current-world view is desired.

Achieving this desire requires not only a change in policy but also a change in how laws are applied. For instance, this would require that Nature have legal standing in our society. This very idea was suggested in a 1972 Supreme Court dissenting opinion written by Justice William O. Douglas who was from Oregon.  Because Nature cannot represent itself in our courts, Nature’s standing would have to be cited in the state constitution to be a trusted and transferable right appointed by the people for its representation, care, and maintenance.  For example, the people could appoint recognized Native American Tribes and/or non-profit public charities that have represented our environment for 10 years or more. To do so, would help alter our historic man-nature relationship for the better. 

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