In February 2021, the Magpie River (called the Muteshekau Shipu in the Innu language) in Quebec became the first river in Canada to be granted legal personhood. This designation was achieved through joint resolutions by the Innu Council of Ekuanitshit and the Minganie Regional County Municipality. The river was endowed with nine specific rights, including the right to flow, maintain biodiversity, and take legal action. Guardians were appointed to represent the river’s interests in legal matters. This initiative aims to protect the river from potential industrial developments and reflects a broader movement to recognize the rights of nature.

In January 2017, Mexico City became the first major city in the world to enshrine the Rights of Nature in its constitution. Article 13 of the new constitution guarantees the preservation and protection of nature by city authorities, emphasizing citizen participation in environmental matters. This landmark decision was influenced by the 2016 Forum on the Rights of Nature, which brought together over 150 organizations and Indigenous leaders. The constitutional provision recognizes nature as a collective entity with rights, requiring the development of secondary laws to regulate and enforce these rights. This initiative aligns Mexico City with global movements in Ecuador and Bolivia, promoting Earth-centered governance and legal frameworks that honor the intrinsic value of ecosystems and species.

The Environmental Law Reporter (ELR), based in Washington, D.C., is a leading legal publication and research platform published by the Environmental Law Institute since 1971. It provides in-depth analysis of environmental, natural resources, energy, land use, and sustainability law and policy. With a primary focus on the United States and additional coverage of international law, ELR offers a monthly journal, legislative updates, case summaries, and access to over 50 years of legal materials. It serves as a vital resource for legal professionals, policymakers, and scholars engaged in environmental law and governance.