Ecocide Law Advisory Launch

On February 12, we gathered at the Asser Institute in The Hague for the launch of Ecocide Law Advisory (ELA) and the Manual on the National Criminalisation of Ecocide—two initiatives dedicated to advancing the effective criminalization of ecocide at national and international levels. 

The event opened with a compelling address by MEP Marie Toussaint, who underscored the urgency of national criminalization to uphold planetary boundaries and ensure accountability. While the EU Environmental Crimes Directive (ECD) came into force in May 2024, critical questions remain—particularly around defining "unlawful" acts and proving corporate intent. 

Richard J. Rogers and Kate Mackintosh, co-founders of ELA, shared insights into the initiative’s role in shaping environmental laws, from supporting biodiversity protection in Brazil to contributing to Scotland’s proposed Ecocide Bill. The discussion also featured Judge and Professor Fausto Pocar, who emphasized the power of naming "ecocide" as a serious crime to drive prevention and deterrence. 

The Manual on the National Criminalisation of Ecocide, initiated by Lammert van Raan, provides lawmakers with structured guidance to navigate challenges in implementing the ECD. Lisette van der Linde (De Roos Advocaten) outlined its legal framework, while Public Prosecutor Ingeborg Koopmans explained how the ECD’s eco-centric approach will strengthen environmental protection. 

This launch marks a crucial step forward in the legal fight against environmental destruction. As the degradation of our ecosystems gains pace, we must strengthen our legal frameworks to prevent and penalize these crimes. 

📘 Download the Manual: ecocidelawadvisory.com