Abby Shin

This really is a legal revolution that could save the world.

The Rights of Nature chronicles the historic, present, and future implications for species and ecosystem rights. It is incredible, and written by a world-renowned expert (as discussed below). I first must emphasize that you need no previous knowledge of law to enjoy or understand this book, it was written for anyone with an interest in how we can protect nature in today’s unprecedented times.

This book takes the reader through a wonderfully written, comprehensive journey regarding the rights of animals, plants, ecosystems, and landscapes. It explains the scientific, philosophical, social, and legal history of each movement, followed by the constitutional and legal foundations that could revolutionize how we balance the needs of humanity with those of the natural world. Although he deals with serious, at times negative topics, Dr. Boyd uses a combination of interesting case studies and persuasive, intelligent narration to evoke passion and high levels of engagement within his readers.

In the midst of a global sixth mass extinction, in which we are seeing rapidly declining populations and health of numerous species, and continually lacking environmental protections in North America and the rest of the world, The Rights of Nature offers a path for hope. It makes the resolute case for protecting nature, both for its intrinsic right to exist and the crucial, irreplicable services it provides to us. In a world of seemingly endless social and environmental crises, equipping yourself with knowledge and passion is the best defence to hopelessness, apathy, and disempowerment. And David R. Boyd’s works (below) are a great place to start!

As a recent publication, you should be able to find The Rights of Nature at any local bookstore!

Dr. David R. Boyd

David R. Boyd is a huge figure in the environmental and human rights sphere. He was the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and the Environment from 2018 to 2024, and is currently an active author, researcher, and Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia (UBC), having published over 100 articles and seven books. Dr. Boyd also has extensive experience practicing as an environmental lawyer both in NGOs and government offices. He served as Executive Director for Ecojustice Canada (previously known as Sierra Legal Defence Fund), as well as Special Advisor on Sustainability to the Clerk of the Privy Council and Prime Minister Paul Martin. Dr. Boyd holds his PhD from UBC, his JD from the University of Toronto, and Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta. As an aspiring environmental lawyer, he is a huge inspiration to me and I’m sure many others!

Dr. Boyd has written numerous other books, some of which I’ve read and the rest of which are next up on my list. These include The Right to a Healthy Environment: Revitalizing Canada’s Constitution; The Optimistic Environmentalist: Progressing Towards a Greener Future; Cleaner, Greener, Healthier: A Prescription for Stronger Canadian Environmental Laws and Policies; and Suzuki’s Green Guide, written in collaboration with environmental icon David Suzuki. Boyd’s writing should not be limited to those interested in law. They are crucial, incredible, readable works about environmental crises and potential solutions that are extremely relevant to each and every one of us.