The information contained in this fact sheet is current as at 1 January 2005.

Topic 1 - Introduction to Environmental Law

1.1 What is Environmental Law?

Environmental law is that area of law that seeks to manage human impacts on the environment.

The meaning of the term ‘environment’ has varied over time and is used differently in different contexts. For the purposes of this publication, environment is defined to include all aspects of the natural environment, including air, water, soil, flora and fauna, and the human environment, including indigenous and non-indigenous cultural heritage.

Environmental law exists at a state, national and international level. This publication provides a practical guide to the application of state and federal environmental law in New South Wales.

In particular, this guide covers the following elements of environmental law:

• environmental planning and assessment;
• natural resource management;
• pollution management;
• biodiversity conservation; and
• natural and cultural heritage.

The guide also includes a chapter on environmental advocacy, covering the following topics:

• submissions, letters and petitions;
• using the media;
• access to information;
• defamation law and safe speech;
• incorporating an environmental group;
• corporations and environmental advocacy;
• environmental protest and criminal law; and
• seeking legal advice and representation.