Natural Justice survey results reveal confidence in the public to make a positive impact on the environment and a strong recognition of the importance of law in responding to climate change.
On 9th August, 2024, The Bar of Ireland and the Climate Bar Association unveiled an outdoor installation alongside the results of a public opinion survey as part of its ongoing the Natural Justice initiative.
The Natural Justice initiative seeks to open a dialogue and bring the intersection of law and the environment to the forefront of public discourse, through community outreach from the Bar, a calendar of open events, school visits by barristers and a dedicated website.
The artwork can be seen on display at The Bar of Ireland’s building at 158-159 Church Street, Dublin 7.
Initial results from the ongoing Natural Justice opinion survey at www.naturaljustice.ie reveal:
- 28% of people said greater economic incentives such as tax credits and subsidies would help them do more for the environment, above responsive policy and regulation (24%), technological innovation (22%), better community engagement (15%) and more education and awareness initiatives (11%).
- 63% of respondents felt the use and development of law was very important in responding to climate change.
- 75% ranked 5 out of 10 or above when asked about their confidence in their ability to make a positive difference to the environment.
School Visits
Earlier this year and as part of the campaign, schools across the country were invited to have a barrister come and speak with students about the role law plays in the environment and to learn more about climate litigation. Over 120 schools expressed interest for a barrister to visit, and The Bar of Ireland continues to pair these with local barristers. This work will continue into the upcoming legal year.
Chair of The Bar of Ireland Sara Phelan SC said,
I am delighted to welcome the installation of the Natural Justice artwork, another fantastic milestone i this ongoing campaign.
The artwork and its message of law, community and environment plays an important role in The Bar of Ireland’s Environmental Sustainability Road Map and underscores our commitment to fostering biodiversity, inclusion and a carbon-neutral future.
Equally, the role of the independent lawyer in navigating what can be a contested area of policy is one that we should safeguard today.
Speaking at the artwork reveal, Chair of Comhshaol – The Climate Bar Association Clíona Kimber SC said,
The evolution and rapid development of climate litigation is a national conversation, with the Climate Bar Association continuing to host conversations across the country, from Belfast to Waterford. The contribution and opinion of the public is a crucial aspect of the Natural Justice Campaign and underscores the role of law in addressing climate change and highlight the public’s readiness to be part of the solution.
It’s fantastic to see a strong recognition of the importance of legal frameworks in environmental protection and the confidence people have in their ability to effect change.
Learn More
The Bar of Ireland and the Climate Bar Association invite the public to visit the mural and participate in upcoming Natural Justice events. For more information on the campaign and how to get involved, visit www.naturaljustice.ie.