About Ritu Dhingra

Dr. Ritu Dhingra is an Environmental Law and Policy expert with over 30 years of experience. She holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Law, focusing on biodiversity and forest conservation. Currently, she serves as the Regional Vice Chair for East and South Asia at IUCN CEESP, where she spearheads initiatives on sustainable development and moderates international webinars. As a consultant at a law firm in Delhi, she provides expert legal and policy guidance.

Evolution of International Environmental Law on Biodiversity Conservation

International environmental law on biodiversity conservation has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a fragmented approach focused on a few commercially important species to a comprehensive, holistic framework. This evolution reflects a growing global awareness of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the profound threat posed by biodiversity loss. This article traces the key milestones in this journey, from early species-specific regulations to the ambitious goals set for 2025. Early Species-Specific Regulations and Frameworks (1940s–1980s) The initial efforts in international biodiversity law were reactive, primarily aiming to manage the exploitation of economically valuable species. The International Convention for the Regulation of … Continue reading

Dubai’s Green Cover: A Vanguard of Hope for Global Conservation

My recent visit to Dubai was an eye-opening experience that challenged my preconceived notions of what a desert city can achieve. As a botanist and environmental law expert, I am accustomed to observing the delicate balance of ecosystems. However, in Dubai, I witnessed something truly remarkable: a flourishing biodiversity in a landscape defined by extreme heat and arid conditions. It’s a powerful contrast. While many cities with naturally fertile land are losing their green cover, Dubai, a city built on sand, is actively transforming its environment. The omnipresent chirping of house sparrows, a species in decline in many of the … Continue reading