Sustainable Development in International Law

Abstract

This article explores the meaning of "sustainable development". In part A the author describes the evolution of the concept of sustainable development, stressing its international environmental orientation. She then presents an analysis of the concept relating to its formulation, definition and meaning. This part also explores the legal aspects of the concept so as to ascertain its true legal character on the international arena. It identifies a legal character in the concept beyond legislative processes, and a flexibility that allows for their interpretation within legal rules to enhance environmental protection at the global or domestic level. Some pertinent developments on the concept since its international inception are also explored, further stressing its importance. In part B the author examines the context in which sustainable development can be implemented at national level. She also shows that national implementation of the concept, represents an important and necessary means of applying sustainable development in order to protect domestic development environments.