This article aims to examine structural similarities and characteristics of two particular areas of law: the legal protection of the natural environment, and how the legal system responds to the current digital transformation of society. Both areas are concerned with finding a fair balance between opportunity and risk. To ensure this balance, a suitable legal foundation must be established. While environmental law has developed considerably over the past few decades, the question of how the law should deal with the increasing digitization still lies ahead. This article examines to what extent both areas face similar challenges regarding preventive legal action.