Codification of this right
Why do we need to acknowledge and codify Environment as a human right?Because, obviously and as a basis for all other rights and life itself, all people have a right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being and to have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations. A human rights approach to environmental issues elevates the entire spectrum of sustainability, conservation and environmental issues to fundamental values of society on a level equal to other rights and superior to ordinary legislation. A level where these issues belong. It will create both rights and obligations and thus more environmental awareness. And from a more legal perspective, it will be a strong legal tool to stop and prevent environmental disruption. Victims will have access to international procedures and environmentalist will be supported as (also) being human rights defenders.
Today, we say, the time has come for people and organisations to stand up for this right. And for the Green, Human Rights and other NGO's (including development and aid) to join hands and Stand Up as one: a human rights approach to environmental issues would benefit and protect both the environment and (lives and health of) millions of people every year.
Especially if environment would be codified as a human right in the European Convention on Human Rights and a UN Convention.