Marine Renewables: Balancing Economic Development, Environmental Protection, and Human Rights

Convenor
	Prof. Dr. Sergio Pena Neira Universidad Mayor, Chile Title of presentation: Who organizes when, how, and by what: Marine renewables at the crossroad of public policies and law

Speakers
Prof. Maria Teresa Infante Caffi Judge of the International Law of the Sea Tribunal\Universidad de Chile Title of presentation: TBA	Prof. Dr. Miguel Ernesto Orellana Benado Universidad de Chile Title of presentation: Fine distinctions, pluralism and public problems	Prof. Dr. Ana María Moure Pino Universidad de Chile Title of presentation: A partnership between Maritime law and the Common agricultural policy of the European Union
Prof. Dr. Cassius Chai Guimaraes Universidad Federal de Maranhao and Faculdade de Direito de Vitoria Title of presentation: Genetic Biopiracy in Transboundary Aquatic Ecosystems: Bridging Jurisdictional Gaps Through Precautionary Governance and Anticipatory Justice	Prof. Dr. Silvia Zorzetto, University of Milan Title of presentation: Ecological Nudging and Resilience

 

Marine renewable energy is among humanity's most critical tools for integrating economic development with the protection of the environment and human rights. Determining who will take action, what measures will be implemented, when these steps will occur, and how they will be executed lies at the heart of renewable energy policies for future generations. While there is broad consensus that global energy demands will rise significantly in the coming decades, a pressing challenge remains: securing the consent and cooperation of coastal communities for energy projects near their shores.

The development of ocean-based renewable energy systems raises complex issues, including human, policy, and legal considerations. These matters are already subjects of robust international debate. Lessons from the jurisprudence of international courts and tribunals are particularly valuable in this context. Case law reflects the real-world challenges faced by states and individuals, offering insights into the legal and policy frameworks required to navigate these difficulties effectively.

International law, public policy, and the principles underpinning them are foundational to addressing these challenges. In the global effort to combat climate change, ocean renewables present a critical solution. However, their implementation must be balanced with the protection of human rights and the environment. Understanding the societal impacts of public policy and legal decisions is essential for fostering community cooperation, ensuring compliance, and addressing unlawful activities.

To this end, addressing these issues early in the design and planning phases of ocean renewable projects is imperative. Consideration of the legal, social, and environmental implications will help mitigate potential conflicts and facilitate smoother project implementation.

This session aims to explore these challenges in depth and provide a platform for dialogue. Through discussions and a structured Q&A session, participants will have the opportunity to identify potential obstacles and strategies to address them. In the context of climate change, reflecting on public policy and international law as critical tools for advancing ocean renewable projects is essential. Such reflection will enable stakeholders to devise solutions that are not only effective but also equitable and sustainable.