The sustainability paradigm in brazilian constitutional law

from the 1988 federal constitution to contemporary environmental governance

Abstract

This article investigates how sustainability can serve as a paradigm for the production and interpretation of law. The main objective is to analyze global interconnection and the need for a paradigmatic transition, as well as to study sustainable development from the Stockholm Conference in 1972 to the UN 2030 Agenda. This research adopts a qualitative methodology with a deductive approach, using a bibliographic review of articles and books published between 2011 and 2024, in addition to the analysis of relevant national and international legislation. The results indicate that the recognition of the principle of sustainability as an essential concept of constitutional law establishes a new approach to modern governance, aligning with democracy and equality. This principle guides the formulation of norms and public policies that promote the rational use of natural resources, integrating environmental protection as a fundamental right and collective responsibility. The growing emphasis on sustainability reflects the evolution of environmental policies and initiatives, which have become priorities in various political and social spheres. The article concludes that sustainability should be seen as a call to action for each member of society, encouraging individual and collective responsibilities in environmental protection.