EU rule of law actors and the environmental crime directive: upholding the law in a new era of ecological challenges

Nature has neither a voice nor the ability to defend itself against human attempts to profit without limit from its resources; only the rule of law can counteract this plundering. Protecting nature means strengthening the structures of the rule of law. If legal regulation does not function, nature is vulnerable and profit-making interests take precedence over environmental welfare. A new Directive, the cornerstone of the European Green Pact, aims to improve on previous legislation by broadening the definitions of environmental crimes, imposing harsher penalties and promoting specialised investigations. Despite its progress, the Directive’s lack of a clear focus on specialisation could hamper its effectiveness. Such a comprehensive approach is essential to preserve the environment, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.