The Rise of Regional Integration Law (RIL): Good News for International Environment Law (EIL)?

Abstract

This article features interactions between the young disciplines of regional integration law (RIL) and international environmental law (IEL). In contrast to the subspecialties of international economic law and international human rights law, cross-linkages between RIL and EIL and their broader significance for international law doctrine and practice have been woefully under-explored.

The article endeavors to make amends through a nexus discussion showcasing the worlds most advanced regional integration project under the auspices of the European Union (EU or Union). After introducing EU law in the environment sphere, specific case studies in the areas of regulatory policy and dispute settlement are offered to highlight contributions and challenges to IEL associated with European RIL. The article closes with observations about the practical realities of the Union s stage presence in the IEL arena.