Legal Precedence

The concept of legal rights for Nature, which grants natural entities like rivers, forests, and ecosystems legal personhood, has evolved significantly over time. Many Indigenous cultures have long recognised the intrinsic value and rights of Nature, viewing ecosystems and natural entities as living beings deserving respect and protection. In contrast, Western legal systems traditionally regarded Nature as property, something to be owned, exploited, and regulated for human benefit. Ecuador became the first country to recognise the rights of Nature at a national level. Its constitution grants Nature the right to exist, persist, maintain, and regenerate its vital cycles. Since 2006 over 119 jurisdictions have recognised the rights of Nature within official documents, guidance and legislation. Although issues remain with respect to implementation, enforcement and integration into existing legal frameworks, the movement towards recognising legal rights for Nature reflects a growing understanding of the need to protect the environment not just for human benefit but as an end in itself, with its own inherent value and rights. Our aim is to build the world's best biodiversity credit market, one that recognises the true value of nature, results in an equitable distribution of benefits and empowers local communities along the way!