2 - The Theoretical Framework for International Legal Principles of Intergenerational Equity and Implementation through National Institutions

Summary

More than thirty years ago the article entitled ‘A Planetary Trust: Conservation and Intergenerational Equity’ appeared, and the book In Fairness to Future Generations was published more than twenty-five years ago. Since then much has happened. As society has gained greater scientific understanding of the environment and of climate change, it has become ever more aware that what is done today affects the future of the planet and that actions in one place have far-reaching effects elsewhere. Society has also turned its attention towards the local level and has begun to focus on what actions must be taken domestically, within and across countries, to ensure equity for both present and future generations. New institutions are now devoted to sustainable development and future generations, and the principle of intergenerational equity is included in many national and sub-national judicial decisions.