Scottish Labour MSP Monica Lennon has called for the introduction of a new 'ecocide' law that criminalizes mass environmental destruction or damage.
The calls are already being backed by the The Scottish Greens, and follow-up on the lengthy 'Stop Ecocide International' campaign spearheaded by the late Scottish barrister Polly Higgins, who passed away in 2019. The proposed law looks to hone in on perpetrators of mass environmental damage, with things like deforestation, oil spills, and large-scale pollution being put in the spotlight. The 'ecocide' law would not only recognise mass environmental damage as a crime, but also works towards eventually recognising such events as international crimes to be tried in the International Criminal Court with the same level of severity as war crimes and genocide.
Lennon has previously stated that the current laws are not strict enough, and there isn't enough of a deterrent in place to stop larger corporations from commiting eco crimes, stating: “We have examples of commercial companies being fined high amounts of money, millions at a time, but up until now it is the reputational damage that comes alongside it that makes them change their ways."
After rallying early support with the Scottish Greens, the Central Scotland MSP plans to consult on her ecocide plans later this year, stating: “People from all parties and none are supporting Ecocide Law because it’s the right thing to do. I am delighted that momentum is building in Scotland and welcome the Scottish Greens getting on board."
Continuing with her long term ambitions: “Building on positive talks with the Scottish Government and MSPs from across the Scottish Parliament, I am confident that an ecocide crime deterrent will become law.”
