The Commission highlighted that rights linked to a clean and healthy environment are crucial for the everyday lives of people across Scotland. Evidence from their local monitoring work indicates that environmental damage, such as air pollution, water contamination, and flooding, negatively affects the enjoyment of human rights in daily life.
Civil society organisations and campaigners have reportedly fought extensively to secure these rights within Scots law. The Commission stated there is 'deep disappointment' that these efforts have not resulted in the inclusion of the right to a healthy environment in the upcoming legislation.
Moving forward, the Scottish Government is urged to ensure the effective enjoyment of these rights through the existing legal system and public policy. The Scottish Human Rights Commission has pledged to collaborate with other stakeholders to ensure that relevant and existing legal frameworks are upheld, and that effective remedies are accessible for any breaches.
The Commission intends to engage with the Scottish Government on how the Bill can best protect everyone's rights to a safe, healthy, and sustainable environment through other comprehensive human rights incorporation routes.
