Introduction. Health and Environmental Protection in the Anthropocene

The dawn of the Anthropocene  unravelled  major global challenges related to global health, ecological integrity and sustainability more broadly. Such challenges importantly call into question the role of International Investment Law as a means to protect foreign direct investments while reconciliating economic development and environmental protection. This introductory Chapter sets the stage for the book by examining relevant case studies that underscore points of conflict between public health and environmental emergencies and its relevance from an Investment Law perspective. Furthermore, it briefly analyses the concept of sustainable development from a conceptual framework to actionable goals, and explores the pivotal role that sustainable development plays within the context of international investment law. Finally, the Chapter outlines the methodological approach adopted in this book, providing insights into the analytical framework used to explore the intricate interplay between health, environmental conservation, and international investment law. Through these discussions, the Chapter aims to provide a comprehensive framework for bridging the gap between sustainable development and international investment law in the Anthropocene era.