The Magdalena River ("el río Magdalena") is Mexico City's last and only free-flowing river, with 44 other rivers paved over, piped or gone completely. The Magdalena faces threats from altered flow, severe pollution and hydraulic infrastructure -- including diversion channels and pipes. In addition to harming the river itself, an impaired river ecosystem puts pressure on the Mexico City Aquifer and forests in the Valley of Mexico.
Existing laws aren't enough to protect the Magdalena River and other ecosystems. Decades of 'regulation' have left our planet in poor shape, with forests erased, rivers polluted, and oceans full of plastic waste. We need a revolutionary change in our approach to nature. What if rivers had a right to flow? What if oceans had the right to be free from pollution? What if forests had a right to grow?
What if nature had rights?
Earth Law Center connects and catalyzes local partnerships to create new laws that uphold the rights of nature and allow local community members to defend nature against harm. In Mexico City, we're working to establish the Magdalena as a legal entity with rights that are enforceable in a court of law, including a right to restoration. Our partners, Cuatro al Cubo, have been instrumental in moving the project forward. Around the world, we're creating legal frameworks to safeguard California waterways, protect the Sea Shelf in Patagonia, and develop a whale and dolphin sanctuary in Uruguay's territorial waters. We're teaching "Earth Law" and giving communities the tools they need to bring a rights of nature approach to their waters and lands.
We're building a massive international movement to change the laws around natural ecosystems - and we need your support. Take action today and voice your support Earth Law.
