Summary:

The subject of the present article is an analysis of the role of extensive interpretation within the framework of environmental law. Although, depending on adopted attitude with regard to terminology, independence of environmental law as a separate branch of law is viewed divergently in the doctrine, there are no doubts as to possession, by the environmental law, of an array of characteristic features that differentiate it amongst other fields of law.  In particular, there may be mentioned presence of its own principles (like ‘polluter pays’ principle or principle of prevention, as well as precautionary principle) or use of market-based instruments. Environmental law is also the field which is being shaped both under the influence of law of the European Union, as well as the influence of domestic legal order. That leads to a situation in which within the framework of environmental law there is a clash of various trends concerning interpretation of law, i.e. primacy of literal interpretation, traditionally assumed with regard to Polish law, and, on the other hand, emphasis put on teleological interpretation, demonstrated in jurisprudence of the European Court of Justice. The latter trend is strengthened by the impact of principles and values which lie at the heart of environmental law. That leads to interesting results in legal interpretation.

 

 

Key words: interpretation, environmental law, teleological interpretation, extensive interpretation

Autor: Monika Popek
Ostatnia aktualizacja: 30.05.2019, godz. 13:25 - Monika Popek