Rights of Nature Versus Conventional Nature Conservation: International Lessons from Australia’s Tarkine Wilderness

A comparative analysis of the Tarkine wilderness, Tasmania reveals that the rights-of-nature model could offer superior environmental outcomes over conventional conservation methods when specific conditions are met. The study draws on international experiences from New Zealand and Ecuador to assess how this legal approach might apply in Australia. It finds that while affirming rights for nature represents a significant shift in legal frameworks, its effectiveness depends on addressing broader societal drivers of environmental degradation. This research highlights the potential benefits of integrating rights-of-nature principles into existing protected areas and conservation measures under Australian or Tasmanian law.

Richardson, B. J., & Hamaski, N. (2021). Rights of Nature Versus Conventional Nature Conservation: International Lessons from Australia’s Tarkine Wilderness. Environmental Policy and Law, 51(3), 159–173. https://doi.org/10.3233/epl-201066