HL.c.2—Environmental ethics

Environmental ethics applies moral reasoning to human relationships with ecosystems, species, non-human entities and future generations.

It developed as a distinct field in the 1960s and 1970s as environmental awareness grew and philosophers questioned Western traditions focused mainly on duties between humans.

A forest may be protected for human water security, for the rights or welfare of organisms, for future generations, or because destroying it is considered wrong in itself.

Ask who or what is morally considered, which value or duty applies, and whether the framework includes non-human or non-living entities.

Environmental ethics is broader than environmental law: legality does not settle moral standing or responsibility.