Trees as victims of vandalism. Green criminology towards the destruction of natural and cultural heritage

• In Event: Green Criminology and Justice: Perspectives on Protection, Punishment, and Rehabilitation

Abstract

The subject of particular interest in green criminology is the protection of natural heritage and crimes against it. At the same time, cultural heritage is inseparably linked to natural heritage. Both are subject to legal protection, as outlined in the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (Paris, 1972). Both are also vulnerable to criminal attacks. Indeed, the natural complexes surrounding historical monuments often form an integral part of these monuments. Examples include parks and gardens established around manor houses and palaces, where trees and bushes create the surroundings of the monument. The combined anthropogenic (monuments) and non-anthropogenic (nature) elements together constitute what is known as the cultural landscape. Consequently, the destructive actions of vandals are often directed against both monuments and their accompanying greenery. This paper presents preliminary findings from a study on vandalism of natural and cultural heritage conducted at the Olsztyn School of Ecocriminology. It will outline the principles of criminal liability for this type of crime, present the results of the research conducted on criminal cases, and provide a criminological picture of the phenomenon.

Authors

• Maciej Andrzej Duda, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn

• Joanna Narodowska, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn