Zupko and Laures. Straws in the Wind: Medieval Urban Environmental Law - The Case of Northern Italy.

Presents evidences that human have been interested in environmental quality for nearly as long as written records obtain.

Examines smaller towns and cities of north and north central Italy between 1000 and 1750. Examined regional statutes to see how law was used to regulate the environment and the quality of life inside town walls. Emphasis on local rather than regional response to environmental issues. The statutes represent rational responses to perceived needs within the limits of scientific and technical knowledge of the times.

European population tripled between 1000 and 1300 (see notes on agricultural production).

Town were harshly competitive, highly stratified, with rich elites and and laborers. Economy was agriculture and trade based on mercantilism. Separation of church and secular.

Assumptions about the environment: First, the earth was a planned abode -- God intentionally provided a home for man because he favored the rational over the irrational. Humans were the only rational animal.Continuted development was God's will. Second, humans werestewards of their environment managing and protecting the resources.

Environmental impacts of population and modes of subsistence.

Roadways were supervised by government. Litter legislation. Hay and other fodder were fire hazards so regulated. Animal waste on roads so number of animals and size of herds regulated. Human waste not to be thrown on streets so action was fined, Codes passed aimed at keepin roads claer for pedestrians, vehicles, and business. p. 56.

Water use was supervised by government. Water and sewer systems operated to have safe drinking water but more so for public sanitation. Keep the filth moving downstream.P. 70.

Waste removal. The nobility enacted codes that represented their interests. Merchants and artisans protected particular interests. Butchers' and bakers" guilds operate to ensure maximum production of foodstuffs at lowest prices. To maintain public health with good quality meat and keeping roads clear so trade could occur. p.76.

Note codes were derived from Justinian codes of ancient rome.