The Earth is the foundation of our human existence. Environmental law also serves to protect it. Environmental law therefore encompasses all government regulations whose purpose is to protect the natural environment and maintain the functionality of ecosystems. Environmental protection plays a role in a multitude of laws. These include, for example, nature conservation and landscape management law, soil protection law, waste management law, water protection law, as well as immission control and radiation protection law. Modern environmental law is based on principles and fundamental principles: These include, in particular, the precautionary principle (preventing environmental pollution from occurring in the first place), the polluter pays principle (those who pollute are responsible), and the cooperation principle (participation of private entities in public decision-making). The principle of sustainability has gained considerable importance, especially in recent times.The Earth is the foundation of our human existence. Environmental law also serves to protect it. Environmental law therefore encompasses all government regulations whose purpose is to protect the natural environment and maintain the functionality of ecosystems. Environmental protection plays a role in a multitude of laws. These include, for example, nature conservation and landscape management law, soil protection law, waste management law, water protection law, as well as immission control and radiation protection law. Modern environmental law is based on principles and fundamental principles: These include, in particular, the precautionary principle (preventing environmental pollution from occurring in the first place), the polluter pays principle (those who pollute are responsible), and the cooperation principle (participation of private entities in public decision-making). The principle of sustainability has gained considerable importance, especially in recent times.