Top UN Panel Votes to Recognize Human Right to a Clean Environment

"Sources say the Biden administration opposed the idea, despite its professed support for environmental justice. Advocates see the recognition as key to better protecting the environment."

"The United Nations’ top human rights body voted Friday to adopt a resolution recognizing the human right to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

The resolution passed with 43 votes in favor while China, India, Japan and Russia abstained from voting. The United States is not a member of the U.N. Human Rights Council and did not participate in the vote.

The approval, while not legally binding, solidifies the idea that the right to a healthy environment —a right that at least 150 countries recognize in some form—should be universally protected."

Katie Surma reports for Inside Climate News October 7, 2021.

Source: Inside Climate News, 10/11/2021