Law and Sustainability

Law and Sustainability 

vvz. No.: 2119 

The course will explore different legal aspects related to sustainability. Delving into the intricate interplay between law and sustainability, it will discuss the role of law and regulation in enhancing sustainable business practices. The study of international standards will illustrate how global developments contribute to shaping sustainability laws. The course will start with a general introduction to the UN sustainable development goals and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Business Conduct. It will then go into details of the relevant private law aspects, with a specific focus on Swiss and European Union law, encompassing contract and tort law, insurance law, and private international law. It will also cover the topic of sustainability from the corporate and financial law perspective, including aspects such as banking regulation, capital markets law and competition law. Students will develop a holistic understanding of the current legal framework while staying abreast of recent developments that pave the way for future reforms of the legal framework.

Upon completion of this course, students will acquire the ability to evaluate the importance of international standards in the realm of sustainability. They will also be able to compare their relevant national legal provisions, with a specific focus on Swiss and European Union law. Recognizing the fact that sustainability encompasses a diverse array of legal topics, students will develop the skill to adopt a holistic approach, facilitating the establishment of connections between various legal disciplines. In so doing, they will gain proficiency in understanding the interrelated nature of legal aspects contributing to sustainability. Finally, the course will engage students in a critical analysis of deficiencies and gaps within the existing legal framework, equipping them with the capacity to identify areas for improvement and potential avenues for legal reform in the context of sustainability.

The class will be held in person. PowerPoint presentations and some reading materials will be provided. Please consult the OLAT page of the course regularly for further information.

An exam will be conducted at the end of the semester. It will be an oral examination, lasting 15 minutes. The exam will be open book. More details will follow during the term. 

Please make sure to regularly check the general information on exams at the University of Zurich, which you can find here.