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EU Parliament Makes History: Criminalizing Ecosystem Destruction

 The European Union has taken a groundbreaking step towards environmental protection by criminalizing the most serious cases of ecosystem destruction. In a historic vote, the European Parliament overwhelmingly approved the updated environmental crime directive, making the EU the first international body to implement such legislation.

Key Points of the Updated Directive:

  • Criminalizes "ecocide": While the term "ecocide" isn't explicitly mentioned, the directive targets cases "comparable to ecocide," effectively criminalizing large-scale environmental damage.
  • Tougher penalties: Individuals, including CEOs and board members, can face prison sentences up to 10 years for environmental crimes that cause death. General sentences can be up to 8 years.
  • Expanded scope: The new directive adds activities like water abstraction, ship recycling, and the introduction of invasive species to the list of environmental crimes.
  • Individual accountability: Individuals can be held liable even if they weren't directly involved but had knowledge and authority to prevent the harm.
  • National implementation: Member states have two years to incorporate the directive into their national laws. This includes deciding on specific penalties and whether to implement fines based on company turnover.


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