The right to information in environmental matters

Abstract

The right of access to environmental information is set out in a number of national and international texts and is also the subject of a large volume of jurisprudence. Individuals also make a number of proclamations on the subject to public authorities. It is a vital tool for environmental transparency and participatory democracy. It empowers citizens to access environmental information and engage in public decision-making. However, this right is limited by legal exceptions such as national security, industrial secrets, judicial confidentiality or the protection of privacy. The French and Algerian examples illustrate these contradictions. To make it more effective, reforms are needed: harmonisation of laws, proactive transparency by governments, protection for whistleblowers. This right, which stands at the crossroads of ecological and democratic issues, is essential if we are to reconcile climate justice, stakeholder responsibility and popular engagement. Keywords: Environmental information, Aarhus convention, Legal consecration, Legal limitions, Adminstrative transparency