Chennai, Dec 26: An international conference on environmental protection under international law was held at VIT Chennai on Tuesday, placing focus on the expanding legal obligations of states to prevent environmental harm across borders.
Jurists, academicians and legal experts from India and abroad deliberated on the role of international law in addressing climate change, environmental degradation and disputes over shared natural resources. The discussions examined how evolving legal principles can guide state conduct amid mounting environmental challenges.
Delivering the valedictory address, Leonardo Nemer Caldeira Brant, Judge at the International Court of Justice, said that a core function of the court is to promote responsible state behaviour and prevent environmental damage extending beyond national boundaries. He said nations are expected to exercise due diligence so that their activities do not adversely affect the global climate system.
Tracing the evolution of international environmental law, Justice Brant referred to disputes involving shared rivers, marine ecosystems and wildlife protection. He explained how international courts and tribunals have addressed such conflicts by balancing sovereign rights with collective environmental interests.
Presiding over the conference, G. V. Selvam, Vice President of VIT, said environmental protection must progress alongside the rule of law. He observed that responsive legal frameworks at the international level can help reconcile environmental safeguards with sustainable development goals.
In a special address, R. Suresh Kumar recalled earlier proposals to establish an exclusive international environmental court, noting that such ideas have yet to materialise.
The conference also featured participation from T. Thyagarajan, C. Rabbiraj, faculty members and research scholars.
