The use of criminal sanctions to protect the environment is increasingly advocated worldwide. The reasons given are straightforward: businesses will most readily respond to criminal sanctions; and criminal penalties, especially imprisonment, reflect complaints that the criminal justice system is biased against common offenders and favors individuals who commit white collar crimes. Arguments against criminalizing environmental law emphasize its high costs, procedural complexity, and potential overkill effects. Criminal sanctions may have a deterrent effect and may be morally necessary, but they are infrequently imposed for environmental offenses because intent and responsibility are usually difficult to establish. Moreover, when criminal charges are brought for environmental offenses, they may be withdrawn. Although arguments against criminalizing environmental law are numerous, even a small number of successful prosecutions may encourage individuals and firms to comply with environmental laws and protect the environment. 43 footnotes