This Article examines the history of Canadian environmental law in order to explain why it has become a laggard in both legal reform and environmental performance. Canadian environmental law has long been of interest to scholars worldwide, yet its record is often poorly understood. The Article contrasts recent developments with the seemingly progressive initiatives of the 1970s, and analyzes these trends in light of their political, economic and governance context, as well as the wider critiques of environmental law. It argues that there is considerable room for Canadian governments to adopt more robust methods of environmental law, including following pioneering reforms advanced in other countries. However, even with such steps, further environmental degradation might not be averted unless Canadians are prepared to accept more fundamental changes to their economic systems and social values.
History
Publication title
Ecology Law Quarterly
Volume
37
Issue
4
Pagination
981-1040
ISSN
0046-1121
Department/School
Faculty of Law
Publisher
Univ Calif Press
Place of publication
C/O Journals Division, 2000 Center St, Ste 303, Berkeley, USA, Ca, 94704-1223