Course info

Introduction

This module provides an introduction to environmental law and regulation, focusing on the legal frameworks and policies that govern environmental protection at national, regional, and international levels. It allow students the opportunity to question how effectively environmental law can protect human health and the environment; address practical and pressing problems such as pollution, chemicals, loss of biodiversity, sustainability, the regulations of novel technologies and climate change. It explains how we can limit damage the future and address important issues of environmental justice and review both environmental, litigation through the case law as well as how to handle environmental risks in the course of property and commercial transactions.

Learning outcome

By the end of this module, students will be able to:

1. Explain the foundations and key principles of environmental law.

2. Identify major national and international legal instruments related to environmental protection.

3. Understand the regulatory mechanisms for enforcing environmental standards.

4. Evaluate legal responses to environmental issues such as pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

5. Apply legal reasoning to real-world environmental scenarios and case studies.

1. Evolution of environmental law,
2. Key legal principles (such as the precautionary principle, polluter pays, and sustainable development),
3. The roles of institutions in enforcing environmental legislation.
4. Core areas such as air and water quality regulations, waste management laws, Climate change legislation, biodiversity protection, land use planning. And protecting natural resources National Policy ; Strategy for Water Supply and Sanitation Services, National urban housing policy for Rwanda, Transport sector policy, Practical Tools on Natural Resources in Rwanda.
5. Legal responsibilities of individuals, businesses, and governments, and how legal instruments are used to address environmental challenges.
6. Technology risks