Earth jurisprudence means looking at the actual philosophy and value systems that underpin most legal and governance systems, and making sure that they support, rather than undermine, the integrity and health of the Earth.

Most legal systems promote the interest of the human community while giving no real protection to other species, or to the planet itself. They reflect and perpetuate a view of the Earth as simply a collection of 'resources' or objects which human beings are entitled to exploit for their exclusive benefit.

So what if there were another jurisprudence, based upon the concept that the planet and all species have rights? And they have those rights by virtue of their existence as members of a single Earth community?

Join a growing international network of people who are taking up the challenge of making radical changes in our approach to environmental law making, the philosophy on which laws implement policy, and the systems of governance which enable such laws to be made and applied.


Theologian, scholar and one of the most eminent cultural historians of our times, first conceived the idea of Earth Jurisprudence. His work has inspired thousands of people, worldwide, who are looking for a way to return to an Earth-centred worldview.

In his book The Great Work: Our Way into the Future, Thomas Berry explains the roots of the ecological, social and democratic crisis we now face. It is through the legal system, he argues, that the present globalising society allows and legitimises destruction, or could prevent it.