Environmental destruction is now a ‘crime against humanity’: Criminals are shaking under new ICC rules.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands, announced a groundbreaking rule in early 2026. The new rule classifies intentional and widespread environmental destruction as a crime against humanity or a war crime.

Under the new interpretation of the Rome Statute, corporate leaders and government officials responsible for deforestation in the Amazon or Southeast Asia, severe ocean pollution, or toxic waste trafficking may face trial in international court.

The announcement responds to the increasing cases of illegal mining and wildlife trafficking in recent years. An Interpol report reveals that environmental crime is now the second most profitable illegal trade globally, after drug trafficking.

Illegal gold mining in the Amazon and logging in the Congo Basin are harming biodiversity and violating the human rights of indigenous communities. The ICC has now brought these crimes under the highest international law.

The recent IUCN session highlighted the importance of improving intelligence sharing and coordination among law enforcement to fight environmental crimes. Starting in 2026, environmental liability will not just involve fines or civil lawsuits; it will also result in personal criminal liability.

If a CEO knows their project is harming the environment and does nothing, they could be personally imprisoned.

Experts believe this step will elevate the global fight against ecocide. Countries such as Ghana, the Philippines and Brazil have already started setting up specialized environmental courts. However, the challenge remains in collecting evidence.

Efforts are now underway to identify these perpetrators using satellite imaging and blockchain-based supply chain tracking. 2026 will therefore be marked as an ‘unprecedented year’ in the history of environmental justice.