Standards in Subnational Environmental Constitutionalism

Abstract

This chapter examines the instantiation of environmental standards in subnational constitutions. Standards in environmental constitutionalism can emanate from subnational sources, including states, provinces, municipalities and additional meso-levels of governance that exists between the national and local governments. Subnational constitutionalism is worldwide, advancing myriad civil, political and socioeconomic rights, and often filling gaps in federal systems. Subnational governments around the globe have seen fit to constitutionalize substantive and procedural environmental rights, environmental duties, and sustainable development for present and future generations, often more elaborately than provided in national constitutions.