The ecocide legislation would make Scotland the first part of the UK to incorporate a crime of ecocide – defined as “unlawful or wanton acts” which cause widespread environmental damage.
It is intended to deter and punish events such as oil spills caused by corporate negligence, while deforestation or illegal fishing could also be within its scope. The legislation would set a minimum jail sentence of 10 years for the crime of ecocide, with a maximum of 20 years.
“The maximum of 20 years maybe does sound a bit harsh, but we’re talking here about the most severe impact that could have irreversible damage, it could be destroying a whole ecosystem,” the Labour MSP told reporters at a launch event in Edinburgh.
She said the law would complement existing environmental legislation and provide an overarching deterrent for those who may wish to skirt the current regulations.