Eksistensi Prinsip In Dubio Pro Natura terhadap Tindak Pidana Lingkungan Hidup (Studi Putusan PN Siak Sri Indrapura No. 8/Pid.B/LH/2021/PN SAK)

Abstract

This study aims to examine the existence of the In Dubio Pro Natura principle in the context of law enforcement against environmental crimes, focusing on the case study of the Siak Sri Indrapura District Court Decision No. 8/Pid.B/LH/2021/PN SAK. The In Dubio Pro Natura principle is an environmental law principle that prioritizes the protection of nature in situations of legal uncertainty or questionable scientific evidence. Using a normative juridical approach with case analysis method, this research finds that the implementation of this principle still faces various obstacles, both normative and structural, and in judicial practice, particularly regarding scientific evidence. This study emphasizes the need for a more progressive paradigm update for environmental law, based on prudence and sustainable development, to ensure both legal certainty and ecological sustainability. The analysis shows that the In Dubio Pro Natura principle has not been consistently adopted by law enforcement officials, despite its normative legitimacy within the national legal framework. This study recommends strengthening the legal basis, training for law enforcement officers, and increasing multidisciplinary understanding in deciding environmental cases.