This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module examines key issues in environmental law and governance beyond the state. Through a study of recent developments in international environmental law and private international law, the module analyses phenomena such as economic approaches to environmental regulation, the role of scientific panels and indigenous knowledge in environmental decision-making and the extension of liability and responsibility for environmental harm and damage. The aim of the module is to understand how new transnational laws are made and implemented, as well as the key values, legal principles and strategies that guide environmental policy and decision making in the 21st century. The module is taught through a series of case studies, such as on climate change and biodiversity conservation
Total study hours: 200
Contact hours: 18
Private study hours: 182
Optional module for all LLM courses/pathways.
Main assessment methods
The module is assessed by 100% coursework, comprising:
Coursework - essay 1 (1000 words) - 20%
Coursework - essay 2 (4000 words) - 80%
Reassessment methods
Reassessment instrument (coursework)
Heyvaert, Transnational Environmental Regulation and Governance (CUP, 2019).
Bodansky/Brunee/Hey (eds), Oxford Handbook of International Environmental Law (2nd ed. OUP 2021).
Sands, Principles of International Environmental Law (4th ed CUP, 2018).
Heyvaert & Duvic-Paoli, Research Handbook on Transnational Environmental Law (Edward Elgar, 2020).
Zumbansen (ed), Oxford Handbook of Transnational Law (OUP 2021).
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of the concepts, principles, and rules relating to the development and application of
selected areas of substantive transnational environmental law.
2. Demonstrate a detailed appreciation of the importance of broader underlying political and policy contexts and dynamics that underpin the
evolution of transnational environmental law, transnational law and governance beyond the state more generally.
3. Access the main sources of academic literature and legal texts relating to the substantive legal topics of transnational environmental law, including
relevant treaty and/or legislative sources, judicial decisions and policy documents.
4. Assimilate and analyse complex material from various sources including international treaties, protocols, declarations, judgments of
international courts and tribunals in the field of environmental law;
5. Undertake appropriate further training or research in the environmental law field.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1. Present relevant knowledge and understanding in the form of reasoned and supported argument.
2. Carry out thorough research, analysing various points of view and using wide sources.
3. Express themselves to a high standard in a coherent form, with appropriate use of citation.
4. Find relevant primary and secondary material for research in hard copy and through electronic sources
Stage 1
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