What if the law did not see Nature simply as something we own, use, or protect, but recognized Earth as a living community with rights of its own? What would change if rivers, forests, ecosystems, and the living world were not merely objects of human concern, but subjects deserving respect and protection?

In this conversation, with South African environmental lawyer and author, Cormac Cullinan, we explore the evolution and impact of the Rights of Nature movement, the significance of the 2010 Universal Declaration of the Rights of Mother Earth, and the possibilities for transforming both our legal systems and our relationship with the natural world. Cullinan reflects on the influence of the Universal Declaration and the experimental and restorative role of the International Rights of Nature Tribunal. He shares insights from place-based initiatives involving Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, and Antarctica, illustrating how the recognition of Nature’s rights can take different forms in different contexts. The conversation also explores the deeper ethical foundations of Earth jurisprudence and its connections with the Earth Charter, particularly its recognition that humanity is part of a larger community of life. Cullinan explains why the language of harmonious coexistence with Nature matters and why transforming our legal systems is essential if societies are to respect and sustain the health and integrity of the Earth community. The conversation closes with a call for education, collaboration and the emergence of a broad movement of people whose primary allegiance is to our shared living planet.

Leonardo Garnier | Insights from UNESCO’s Futures of Education initiative and Report with Leonardo Garnier: Reimagining Learning for a Changing World.