The fourth annual report of the Independent Expert on human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy, and sustainable environment described possible methods of implementing human rights obligations.
The report discusses three points:
(1) the methods of implementation are not “either/or” alternatives, but instead should complement one another;
(2) all of the methods of implementation for human rights norms relating to the environment would also support achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals; and
(3) a human rights perspective on environmental protection not only promotes human dignity, equality and freedom, but also improves the effectiveness of policy making generally.
Possible methods of implementation described include:
(a) disseminating information about the human rights norms relating to the environment;
(b) building capacity;
(c) protecting the rights of those who are most vulnerable; and
(d) strengthening cooperation between different actors.
Implementation proposals are addressed to several organizations including:
(a) the Human Rights Council and other intergovernmental organizations;
(b) regional human rights bodies and other regional organizations;
(c) Governments and national human rights institutions;
(d) civil society organizations; and
(e) the Special Rapporteur himself.