Summary/Abstract
The focus of this article is on overarching rules of international law that are common legal ground and might apply to all concepts currently discussed under the heading “geoengineering.” In this context we analyze the legal implications of the duty to respect the environment, the precautionary principle or approach, and the duty to undertake an environmental impact assessment. In addition, the article explores to what extent the Environmental Modification Convention (“ENMOD”) could be applicable or useful as a reference. Against this backdrop the article also analyzes the CBD COP10 decision on ocean iron fertilization.