Abstract
<p>This dissertation examines whether, and in what form, an independent fundamental right to environmental protection exists or could be established within the German Basic Law. It focuses on a comprehensive analysis of the concepts of “environment” and “environmental protection” in constitutional law, as well as the existing fundamental rights framework. Taking into account recent developments in international and European human rights protection—particularly the case law of the European Court of Human Rights and ongoing global climate debates—the study explores whether such a right can already be derived from existing law or should be explicitly codified in the future. By combining constitutional analysis with comparative and international perspectives, the work provides a substantial contribution to current discussions on fundamental rights, climate protection, and intergenerational responsibility.</p>