‘Biggest Case on the Planet’ Pits Kids vs. Climate Change – National Geographic
Article Synopsis – A group of 21 youths is suing the federal government. The lawsuit claims the government’s promotion of fossil fuel production and its indifference to the risks posed by greenhouse gas emissions have resulted in “a dangerous destabilizing climate system” that threatens the survival of future generations. That lapse violates their fundamental constitutional rights to life, liberty, and property. The lawsuit also argues that the government violated the public trust doctrine, a legal concept grounded in ancient law that holds the government is responsible for protecting public resources, such as land and water—or in this case, the climate system—for public use. The lawsuit was joined by acclaimed NASA climate scientist James Hansen. Last fall, a U.S. District Court Judge agreed with the youths’ claim. Her sweeping 54-page opinion laid the foundation for what looks to be a groundbreaking trial later this year. In her ruling, Aiken established, in effect, a new right for these children and teens: a right to expect they could live in a stable climate. To read the actual article click here.