This Model Law is aimed at guiding national legislation on environmental education and the development of environmental culture. It establishes a legal framework designed to ensure citizens’ rights to a healthy environment, access to environmental information, and environmental education. The Law defines key concepts such as environmental information, environmental culture, and environmental education, emphasizing the role of knowledge dissemination and awareness in achieving sustainable development and improving environmental protection. The Law outlines the main principles and objectives of state policy in this field, including accessibility of environmental information, continuity of education, public participation, and orientation toward sustainable development. It identifies key tasks such as engaging citizens in environmental protection activities, strengthening public initiatives, improving environmental conditions, and fostering individual responsibility. In addition, it describes a broad “environmental educational space” involving media, cultural institutions, public organizations, and local communities, highlighting the importance of coordinated action across societal sectors. The document further establishes institutional and governance mechanisms, detailing the roles of state authorities, local governments, organizations, and citizens in implementing environmental education policies. It provides for national programs, interagency coordination bodies, and consultative councils, as well as participation of museums, libraries, and media in awareness-raising efforts. The Law also addresses funding sources, including state and local budgets and other lawful contributions, and emphasizes international cooperation among CIS states. Finally, it includes provisions on monitoring, accountability, and enforcement to ensure effective implementation of environmental education and cultural development policies.
2017-03-27