This paper analyzes the relationship between environmental rights, civic duties, and legal responsibilities in the context of Albania’s climate governance. Through an analysis of national legal frameworks, international commitments, and institutional practices, the study highlights the normative and practical gaps that undermine citizen engagement. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining doctrinal legal analysis with empirical data from national reports and inspection activities. Findings reveal that while Albania has formally adopted a progressive legal framework, including the recognition of the right to a healthy environment and detailed sanctions for environmental harm, the practical implementation is hindered by infrastructural deficits and administrative fragmentation. This leads to a paradox: citizens are legally bound to comply with environmental obligations without the institutional support to fulfill them. The article argues for a recalibrated model of environmental justice that not only demands citizen compliance but also ensures enabling conditions through state action.