Evaluation of the COVİD-19 process within the scope of the right to environment

Environmental problems, which have worsened over the last century, have led to the disruption of the ecological balance and the jeopardization of the sustainability of natural resources, directly impacting the right to the environment—the right of individuals to live in a healthy and clean environment. The Covid-19 pandemic, particularly between 2020 and 2023, has highlighted the direct impact of disrupted ecological balance on human life and fundamental rights, making the right to the environment a current and critical issue. This study examines this pandemic process within the context of environmental rights and fundamental rights to life using a qualitative approach. Findings obtained through a literature review and descriptive analysis demonstrate that the pandemic concretely demonstrates the role of environmental degradation in the rise of zoonotic diseases. During the pandemic, curfews and the slowdown in economic activity led to short-term improvements in some environmental indicators, such as air pollution and carbon emissions. However, despite these positive impacts, there has been a significant increase in the amount of medical and household waste, such as disposable masks, gloves, and disinfectants. This has led to increased water and soil pollution, creating new environmental threats. Furthermore, the curfews and restrictions on access to parks and natural areas implemented as part of the pandemic management effort have directly restricted individuals' rights to enjoy their environment and live in a healthy environment. These restrictions have negatively impacted the mental health and physical well-being of individuals, particularly those living in large cities. In this context, the pandemic has highlighted that the right to the environment is not only an ecological issue but also an integral part of the right to life and human health. Consequently, this process has once again demonstrated the strong connection between human health, fundamental rights, and environmental protection.