International, European, and Comparative Environmental Law
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
The course explores and analyses the foundations and the main principles and rules of Environmental Law in an international, European, and comparative law perspective. In the second part, selected topics will be addressed in the three perspectives (International, European and comparative).
Expected learning outcomes
By the end of this course, students will: - have knowledge and understanding of the policy options, regulatory techniques, and implementation challenges of the environmental law, in its international, European, and comparative dimensions; - have advanced knowledge and understanding of the legal principles, approaches, and techniques of environmental law and adequate knowledge and understanding of international and European rules relating to selected areas of environmental law - understand the interplay between the different levels of environmental regulation (international, European, domestic), as well as how "legal transplants" shape the making and implementation of environmental law - be able to identify and analyse legal issues of environmental law in a multi-level system, conduct basic research of the relevant materials, report on selected issues and cases, and apply their knowledge to other cases raising similar legal issues - structure an adequate argument on practical cases, including: identify and synthesise the relevant facts, identify and analyse the applicable legal framework in a multilevel system, make a reasonable and coherent argument on the application of the rules to the facts of the case, and draw consequential conclusions. - express advanced concepts of environmental law in a multi-level and comparative perspective law in a coherent and adequate fashion, using proper legal terminology - acquire a method of independent research and study of international, European and comparative environmental law, including by learning how to search and use primary sources, case-law, and scholarship.
Lesson period: First semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
First semester
Course syllabus
International environmental law is a branch of public international law that primarily focuses on the protection of the natural environment. This area of law is crucial for safeguarding the environment upon which humanity relies for survival. It aims to coordinate the efforts of various stakeholders—including states, international organizations, businesses, communities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)—and employs a wide array of legal instruments, such as economic tools and participatory methods, to tackle urgent environmental issues. This course examines the essential governance and regulatory aspects of international environmental law while also introducing significant cases and treaties that have shaped this field.
Indicative List of Key Topics:
* The necessity for international environmental law and its historical evolution
* Core principles and concepts essential for understanding international environmental law, such as sustainable development, the precautionary principle, and the "polluter pays" principle
* The main institutions and actors involved in the creation, implementation, and enforcement of international environmental law
* Influential cases and treaties that have contributed to the development of international environmental law
* Current pressing issues in international environmental law, including air pollution, climate change, ocean protection, species conservation, biodiversity, and environmental concerns related to finance, human rights, and international trade.
Indicative List of Key Topics:
* The necessity for international environmental law and its historical evolution
* Core principles and concepts essential for understanding international environmental law, such as sustainable development, the precautionary principle, and the "polluter pays" principle
* The main institutions and actors involved in the creation, implementation, and enforcement of international environmental law
* Influential cases and treaties that have contributed to the development of international environmental law
* Current pressing issues in international environmental law, including air pollution, climate change, ocean protection, species conservation, biodiversity, and environmental concerns related to finance, human rights, and international trade.
Prerequisites for admission
No prerequisite is needed. However, a basic knowledge in
International law is highly recommended.
Students must have an excellent knowledge of the written and spoken English language
International law is highly recommended.
Students must have an excellent knowledge of the written and spoken English language
Teaching methods
The instructional approach combines traditional methods (lectures delivered by the Professor) with interactive activities among participants (case studies, analysis of legal precedents, group work, and presentations).
The language of instruction for this course is English. This means that all communication during lectures will be in English, and all course literature and supplementary materials are in English.
Course attendance is mandatory: students will be required to attend at least 70% of classes.
The detailed course syllabus and instructional materials will be made available on the ARIEL platform.
The language of instruction for this course is English. This means that all communication during lectures will be in English, and all course literature and supplementary materials are in English.
Course attendance is mandatory: students will be required to attend at least 70% of classes.
The detailed course syllabus and instructional materials will be made available on the ARIEL platform.
Teaching Resources
The written and oral exams will focus on the lecture notes, slides, and material provided by the instructor and uploaded to Ariel.
The study of the above-mentioned material can be supplemented by reading the following text: Bodansky, van Hasselt, "The Art and Craft of International Environmental Law", Oxford University Press, 2 ed., 2024.
READINGS: The required and suggested readings will be listed or uploaded on the ARIEL platform.
A detailed syllabus of the course will be made available on ARIEL at the beginning of the semester.
The study of the above-mentioned material can be supplemented by reading the following text: Bodansky, van Hasselt, "The Art and Craft of International Environmental Law", Oxford University Press, 2 ed., 2024.
READINGS: The required and suggested readings will be listed or uploaded on the ARIEL platform.
A detailed syllabus of the course will be made available on ARIEL at the beginning of the semester.
Assessment methods and Criteria
The course grade ranges from a minimum of 18 points to a maximum of 30 points and is based on the aggregate individual performance in the various examinations. The maximum scores are as follows:
1. Continuous assessment (3 points)
2. Mid-term written examination (10 points)
3. Case-study presentation and discussion (7 points)
4. Final oral exam (10 points)
1. Continuous assessment (3 points)
2. Mid-term written examination (10 points)
3. Case-study presentation and discussion (7 points)
4. Final oral exam (10 points)
IUS/02 - COMPARATIVE PRIVATE LAW - University credits: 3
IUS/13 - INTERNATIONAL LAW - University credits: 3
IUS/13 - INTERNATIONAL LAW - University credits: 3
Lessons: 42 hours
Professor:
Silingardi Stefano
Professor(s)
Reception:
Tuesday: 10.30-12.30 by appointment to be arranged via email
Department of Italian and Supranational Public Law - Basement level, corner room.