PASTERZE. Self-willed nature as a legal subject.

Imagine if a glacier could represent its own interests in court! This concept might seem unconventional, but it is precisely what our interdisciplinary team comprising experts in sociology, ecology, geography, and lawis exploring in this groundbreaking project. The Pasterze Glacier, located at the Großglockner, is Austrias largest glacier, stretching over 8 km, but it is melting alarmingly. Despite being part of a national park, the current protection measures seem insufficient. This is where our research comes in, posing the question: What if the Pasterze could appear in court? Imagine the most powerful glacier in Austria having its own voice. Yes, you heard that right! We are exploring whether the glacier could be recognized as a legal entity in Austria. This would mean it could represent its own intereststhrough lawyers and representatives, of course. Our approach is inspired by the global "Rights of Nature" movement. A notable example is the Atrato River in Colombia, which has been granted legal rights to protect itself from pollution and exploitation. We are examining whether the Pasterze could similarly be recognized as a legal entity with the capacity to hold and assert its own rights. Before we can send the Pasterze to court, we need to address several key issues. These include determining how to accurately represent the "will" of nature in legal terms and implementing this concept within existing legal frameworks. Additionally, we seek to understand public and institutional reactions to the notion of nature having legal rights. This involves engaging in comprehensive discussions with scientists, artists, and other stakeholders to explore varying perspectives and the feasibility of granting nature a "voice" within the Austrian legal system. Our research integrates scientific, philosophical, and artistic methodologies. By collaborating across disciplines, we aim to assess whether this innovative framework could enhance environmental protection efforts. After all, how can one overlook the final wishes of a glacier facing existential threats? PASTERZE. Self-willed nature as a legal subject (TAI1382224)