Legal Frameworks for Sustainable Development: A Review of Global Policies and Practices

Chief Editors:  Mr. Irshadullah Asim Mohammed, Dr. Yogesh Mohan Gosavi, and Prof. (Dr.) Vineeta Kaur Saluja

Associate Editor: Mrs. Sruthi S

Co-Editors: Dr. S. Rajeswari, Dr. Nikhil Saini, and Ms. Atreyee Banerjee

ISBN:  978-81-985805-1-1

Chapter: 19

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/mrnc19/321

Author: G.V. Radhakrishnan

Abstract

Sustainable development has emerged as a critical global objective, necessitating robust legal frameworks to balance economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. This paper reviews the legal structures and policy measures adopted by various countries to promote sustainable development. It explores international agreements, national legislations, and regional initiatives that address key sustainability challenges, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, and resource management. The study highlights best practices, identifies gaps in implementation, and assesses the role of legal mechanisms in ensuring compliance with sustainability goals. Furthermore, it discusses the effectiveness of regulatory frameworks in fostering long-term sustainability while considering economic and social dimensions. The findings emphasize the need for harmonized policies, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and enhanced global cooperation to achieve sustainable development.

References

  1. United Nations (2015). Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
  2. UN General Assembly (2015). Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  3. Convention on Biological Diversity (1992). Global Biodiversity Framework.
  4. European Commission (2020). European Green Deal.
  5. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (2021). Clean Air Act Overview.
  6. California Air Resources Board (2022). Cap-and-Trade Program Summary.
  7. National Development and Reform Commission of China (2021). Five-Year Plan on Sustainability.
  8. China Ministry of Ecology and Environment (2015). Environmental Protection Law.
  9. World Bank (2020). Policy Frameworks for Sustainable Development.
  10. International Monetary Fund (2021). Economic Policies and Environmental Sustainability.
  11. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) (2022). Climate Change Mitigation Strategies.
  12. Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) (2021). Green Growth Strategies.
  13. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) (2022). Legal Trends in Environmental Protection.
  14. International Energy Agency (IEA) (2023). Renewable Energy Policy Updates.
  15. Global Environment Facility (2021). Funding Mechanisms for Sustainability Projects.