This paper focuses on the interplay of constitutional law and the environment. It discusses recognizing a constitutionalized right to a healthy environment, and provides an introduction to what such a right might entail and the impact it could have if it were to be adopted. It also includes a discussion of why constitutional protection of the environment matters, with references to foreign examples. In addition, the paper proposes potential avenues for the right to a healthy environment to become a recognized protection in the Constitution.

This paper is part of a collection presented at LESA’s Canada 150 — Constitutional Law Symposium in Edmonton on October 27, 2017.