The Environment and its Protection as Fundamental Principle of the Italian Constitution: A Constitutional Innovation that Looks to Future Generations?

Abstract

This article deals with two innovative aspects of Italian Constitutional Law. Firstly, the revision made by constitutional law no. 1/2022 that introduced (in art. 9 and 41 of the Italian Constitution) the principle according to which the Republic protects the environment, biodiversity, and ecosystems in the interest of future generations. Secondly, this article points out a recent trend in the constitutional reform process in Italy, particularly in the XVIII Legislature, that constitutional reforms are increasingly being implemented through specific/sectoral amendments. Apart from characterizing the indicated innovations, I also draw attention to their minor systemic consequences.