This subject commences with a consideration of the theory of environmental justice, which argues that there should be equitable access and use of the environment and natural resources for all groups in society. Students are introduced to a range of case studies to consider the different approaches to achieving environmental justice for those parties, usually marginalised groups, who are most affected by environmental decision making. Students examine the adequacy of legal measures to provide for accountability, review or compensation where examples of environmental injustice have occurred. The subject draws from Australian examples but will also cover the issues of transnational accountability for environmental harm ranging from the activities of BHP in Papua New Guinea at Ok Tedi, the on-going litigation involving Union Carbide at Bhopal in India and the case brought against Chevron for environmental despoliation in Ecuador.

Subject rules