The Ecosystem Approach Under the Convention on Biological Diversity: A Legal Research Agenda

Abstract

The ecosystem approach can be considered the landmark regulatory strategy of the Convention on Biological Diversity and other biodiversity-related conventions. But legal scholarship is surprisingly thin with regard to the status and implications of the ecosystem approach. This article discusses the evolution of the ecosystem approach under the Convention on Biological Diversity, and analyses its inter-related components, including its role in ensuring mutual supportiveness among biodiversity-related conventions, as well as with international human rights law. The article concludes by identifying overarching legal questions for future research.

Keywords: ecosystem approach, precautionary approach/principle, adaptive management, benefit-sharing, human rights, climate change, mutual supportiveness