BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
Scotland is taking a brilliant step toward environmental justice with a proposed law that could make it the first UK nation to criminalize ecocide, a term used to describe large-scale, long-lasting, or irreversible damage to the environment.
The Ecocide (Scotland) Bill, recently introduced in the Scottish Parliament, would treat ecocide as a serious criminal offense, not just a regulatory violation. If passed, it could carry prison sentences of up to 20 years for individuals and unlimited fines for corporations. “This bill is about putting real teeth behind our commitment to protect nature,” said one supporter.
A shift in accountability for environmental harm
At its core, the bill defines ecocide as any act, whether intentional or reckless, that results in significant environmental destruction. Unlike current environmental laws, which typically result in fines or regulatory consequences, this bill elevates environmental harm to the level of criminal conduct.
Holding leaders and corporations responsible
A notable feature of the legislation is its focus on accountability at the highest levels. Senior managers, company directors, and public officials could be prosecuted if they allowed environmental damage to occur under their watch or failed to act to prevent it.
If enacted, corporations could face unlimited financial penalties, be held liable for cleanup costs, and be publicly named for their violations. “Too often, those in power evade responsibility while communities bear the consequences. This bill aims to change that,” said a representative from Friends of the Earth Scotland.
Broad support across society and the globe
Support for the bill is strong and wide-ranging. Environmental groups like RSPB Scotland and the Royal Scottish Geographical Society have publicly backed it. An open letter signed by more than 100 prominent global figures, including lawyers, faith leaders, and activists, has urged lawmakers to pass the legislation.
The public seems equally supportive. According to the 2024 Global Commons Survey, nearly 75 percent of people in G20 countries believe political and corporate leaders should be criminally liable for serious environmental harm.
A ripple effect across nations
Scotland is not alone in this movement. Belgium, France, and Ukraine already enacted ecocide laws. Other countries, such as Brazil, Mexico, and Italy, are considering similar measures. On a global scale, Pacific Island nations such as Vanuatu, Fiji, and Samoa have formally proposed adding ecocide to the Rome Statute, which defines the world’s gravest crimes like genocide and war crimes.
The European Union has also updated its regulations, requiring member states to adopt criminal penalties for severe environmental destruction by 2026. Most recently, the Council of Europe approved a treaty that allows countries to prosecute environmental harm resulting in large-scale disasters.
What this could mean for everyday life in Scotland
If the bill passes, it could influence how businesses and governments approach environmental responsibility. Companies might adopt more rigorous sustainability standards, especially when operating near sensitive habitats. Local communities could see stronger protections and real consequences for polluters.
Andrea Carter, a sustainability expert, noted, “This isn’t just symbolic. It could change how industries operate across the board.”
The road to 2026
The bill is currently being reviewed by the Scottish Parliament’s Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee. This phase will include expert testimony, public consultation, and analysis of how the law could be implemented. Agencies like the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and Police Scotland are expected to play key roles in enforcement.
Lawmakers have until 2026, when the current parliamentary session ends, to pass the bill. For now, the process continues. If approved, Scotland would send a powerful message that environmental destruction will no longer go unpunished.
