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An innovative legal concept is currently gaining significant attention as environmental experts seek novel solutions to protect natural resources. This approach, known as ‘Rights of Nature’ (RoN), is being considered for Lough Neagh in Northern Ireland, one of the UK’s most important freshwater lakes. Since last year, Lough Neagh has been severely affected by toxic blue-green algal blooms, primarily caused by pollution from agriculture and wastewater, leading to a profound environmental crisis.

The ‘Rights of Nature’ concept proposes granting a natural site the same legal standing typically afforded to humans or corporations. This means the entity, such as a lake, would legally possess the right to exist, flourish, be restored, and be respected. Crucially, it also empowers individuals or organisations to act on nature’s behalf to defend and enforce these rights. Without such recognition, natural sites commonly depend on indirect protection through laws that often prioritise human interests.

This idea is gaining traction globally, with several countries exploring its implementation. The Republic of Ireland, for instance, is considering a national referendum to embed Rights of Nature within its constitution. The movement draws inspiration from successful cases worldwide.

A key figure in advocating for RoN is Professor Eduardo Salazar-Ortuño, a former lawyer instrumental in securing legal personhood for the Mar Menor in Murcia, Spain. This large Mediterranean saltwater lagoon suffered a devastating ecological disaster in 2016. Intensive farming practices in the surrounding area had led to severe pollution, triggering an enormous algal bloom. This bloom tragically depleted the water of oxygen, resulting in the death of thousands of marine species. Professor Salazar-Ortuño, who grew up near the lagoon, was deeply moved by the sight of “fishes on the shore looking for oxygen,” which he described as “horrible.” His dedicated efforts successfully transformed the lagoon’s legal status.

Professor Salazar-Ortuño believes a similar methodology could profoundly alter the prospects for Lough Neagh. Earlier this month, a diverse group including lawyers, activists, fishermen, and policymakers convened in Belfast to deliberate on these possibilities. Should Lough Neagh be granted legal personhood, it would enable direct, proactive measures to safeguard its ecosystem, moving beyond sole reliance on existing environmental regulations. This radical shift could provide a powerful new instrument in the ongoing struggle against pollution and for the comprehensive restoration of this vital natural asset.

1. What is the main topic of the article?

• A.The pollution crisis in Lough Neagh.
• B.The global movement to give natural sites legal personhood.
• C.Professor Salazar-Ortuño’s work in Spain.
• D.The failures of current environmental laws.

2. What was the primary cause of the blue-green algal blooms in Lough Neagh?

• A.Climate change.
• B.Industrial waste.
• C.Pollution from agriculture and wastewater.
• D.Overfishing.

3. What can be inferred about existing environmental protection laws before the ‘Rights of Nature’ concept?

• A.Their primary focus was often human interests, offering indirect environmental protection.
• B.They provided direct and comprehensive protection for ecosystems.
• C.They were entirely ineffective at protecting nature.
• D.They were actively harming natural sites.

4. How did Professor Eduardo Salazar-Ortuño react to the ecological disaster at Mar Menor?

• A.He was primarily interested in the legal challenge.
• B.He felt a sense of academic curiosity.
• C.He was hopeful for a quick natural recovery.
• D.He was deeply moved and found the situation “horrible.”

5. In paragraph 3, what does the phrase “gaining traction” mean?

• A.Creating friction.
• B.Becoming more difficult.
• C.Attracting legal challenges.
• D.Becoming more widely accepted.