Understanding Ecological Justice

The Cause and Effects of Ecological Justice

Our Understanding Ecological Justice projects investigate fundamental questions pertaining to the nature of justice in ecosystems, the nature of justice between humans and the ecosystems of which they are part, and between humans per se. In particular, our research generates insights into the causes and effects of Ecological Justice on species, society and groups within society, and develops new understandings of the (in)justice these impacts raise. Our research addresses the implications Ecological Justice has for the origins of core concepts in disciplines as varied as architecture, ecology, geography, law, and photography.

Within the scope of understanding ecological justice we investigate two main areas:

• The nature of ecological justice between humans
• The nature of ecological justice within ecosystems

Key Projects

Earth-systems Law - This project led by Professor Louis Kotzé addresses the (re)design of law to ensure respect for all life on earth.

Ecological Justice at Sea - This project led by Professors Barnes and Kirk is designed to develop understandings of how conservation and sustainable use of fisheries and marine genetic resources are addressed in law; how activities causing pollution at seas, such as plastics pollution are regulated; and how human and environmental rights can be used to enhance oceans governance. 

Environmental Pollution - This work maps and evaluates the current problems of contamination and identifies emerging contaminants to determine their potential risk to the environment. We also interrogate the international and national laws designed to limit pollutant flows, identifying strengths and weaknesses in the regulatory framework.

Sustainable Ecosystems - Several projects investigate the relationships between organisms and their biotic and abiotic environment to better understand how to make such systems more resilient and sustainable.