Public Trust Doctrine

The Public Trust Doctrine is a legal principle that holds certain natural resources, like oceans, rivers, and shorelines, in trust for the public. This means that these resources should be accessible and protected for everyone's use and enjoyment, not just for private interests. Governments are responsible for managing these resources in a way that preserves them for current and future generations. Essentially, it emphasizes that the environment belongs to the public, and safeguarding it is vital for the common good.