This Working Paper presents trends in the application of the environmental rule of law and human rights in Asia Pacific, with special emphasis on the protection of environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs). This Working Paper argues that realization of human rights and the environmental rule of law is necessary for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is especially so for SDG 16, which seeks to “Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels”.