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    Held v Montana: the young people fighting for the climate in court

    en-gbJune 21, 2023

    Podcast Summary

    • Montana Youth Sue State Government for Climate ActionMontana teens and young adults are suing their state government for failing to protect the climate, arguing it's their constitutional right, and targeting the fossil fuel industry as a key contributor to the crisis.

      Young people in Montana are taking legal action against their state government for failing to protect the climate, which they believe is their constitutional right. This historic trial, the first of its kind in US history, was initiated by 16 children and young adults, ranging from ages 2 to 18. They argue that the adults in power have a legal obligation to maintain a healthy climate for future generations. The trial, held in a small Montana courtroom, has been filled with emotional testimonies from young people, like Grace Gibson Snyder, who fear for the future of their beloved lands and the ability to have children due to the climate crisis. The fossil fuel industry, which has traditionally held significant influence in Montana, is at the heart of this lawsuit, as the plaintiffs aim to make clear that projects that exacerbate the climate crisis are a crime against future generations.

    • Young Montanans Sue State for Climate ActionIn a historic first, 16 young Montanans are suing their state for failing to protect them from climate change, using a unique constitutional provision that guarantees a clean and healthful environment for present and future generations.

      A historic climate case has begun in Montana, where 16 young people are suing the state for failing to protect them from climate change. Montana was chosen for this case due to its constitution, which guarantees the right to a clean and healthful environment since the 1970s. This provision is unique as it applies to both present and future generations, making it the first of its kind in the US. Montana, known for its natural beauty and ecosystems like Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, is experiencing the consequences of climate change firsthand. The first lawsuit under this provision is being brought by a young woman named Ricky Held, who grew up on a ranch and testified about the impacts of climate change on her community, including water scarcity and wildfire smoke. This case highlights the importance of constitutional protections for environmental rights and the far-reaching consequences of the climate crisis.

    • Impact of Climate Crisis on Health and Cultural PracticesChildren, including young activists, face health risks and cultural loss due to climate change. Indigenous communities are deeply affected, emphasizing the need to address these impacts.

      The ongoing climate crisis is not only causing physical and mental health issues, but also deeply impacting cultural practices and spiritual connections for individuals, particularly indigenous communities. Young people, such as competitive runner Micah, are also affected as they face health risks while engaging in activities they love. The case involves children, some as young as 2 years old, who have been encouraged by their parents and a nonprofit law firm to take legal action against the state for failing to consider climate impacts in permitting decisions. These children have become powerful voices in the climate activism movement, expressing their fears and concerns for the future. The loss of cultural traditions and practices due to climate change can be a traumatic experience, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and addressing these impacts.

    • Montana Children's Lawsuit Over Climate Change: Profits vs People's Health and EnvironmentMontana children are suing the state for a declaratory statement that Montana's policies violate the state constitution's guarantee of a clean and healthful environment, highlighting the perceived prioritization of profits over people's health and the environment.

      The ongoing trial in Montana, where children are suing the state over climate change, highlights the perceived prioritization of profits over people's health and the environment. The case doesn't seek monetary damages but instead asks for a declaratory statement that Montana's policies violate the state constitution's guarantee of a clean and healthful environment. Attorney Barbara Chilcott, representing the plaintiffs, shares the concern of losing the Montana her children will inherit due to climate change. The case initially targeted two Montana statutes, with one being repealed and the other, the Montana Environmental Policy Act, still in question. This policy allows considering all environmental consequences except for climate change, which a recent lawsuit suggested might be reconsidered. However, this year, lawmakers clarified that climate change won't be considered, further narrowing the scope of the trial. The sincerity and hope of the young plaintiffs for a future with mitigated climate change resonates deeply.

    • Montana Case: State Cannot Ignore Climate Impact on New Fossil Fuel ProjectsA Montana court has ruled that the state cannot ignore climate impacts when making decisions about new fossil fuel projects, potentially setting a precedent for other jurisdictions.

      In a historic legal case in Montana, the state has been barred from considering greenhouse gas emissions when making decisions about constructing new fossil fuel projects. The case, brought forth by a group of young people, hinges on the idea that the state's contributions to climate change threaten the constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment. Testimony from experts in climate science, health, and renewable energy, as well as the youth themselves, has been presented to support the claim of harm. The state, on the other hand, argues that Montana's small contribution to climate change means it cannot fix the problem alone and should not bear the responsibility. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for other states and countries in addressing climate change through legal means.

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      Blue Nile offers high-quality, independently graded lab-grown diamonds, identical to natural ones, with individualized comfort solutions from Sleep Number smart beds. The Montana case for youth climate action, happening in the state known for its conservation history, has received mixed reactions. Despite opposition, strong supporters, including the youth plaintiffs, feel empowered and proud to be part of this historic event. The kids involved have experienced positive impacts, including a sense of empowerment and a feeling of victory even before the verdict. Parents, initially skeptical, have come to support their children's involvement in the case.

    • Children leading climate action in Montana courtChildren's lawsuit against Montana govt for climate action could set a precedent, inspiring similar efforts in other places.

      The ongoing legal battle led by youth plaintiffs against the Montana state government for climate action brings up complex issues. While their courage is inspiring, the responsibility placed on them can be burdensome and lead to social pressures. A verdict, which could declare a fossil fuel-promoting policy unconstitutional, would be a significant victory, but its impact would be limited to Montana. However, the precedent could inspire similar actions in other states and countries. Ultimately, the children's involvement in the case represents a powerful shift in generational roles, with young people leading the charge for climate action. The trial's outcome will not only impact Montana but could set a new standard for future environmental activism.

    • Children's Lawsuit Against Government for Climate InactionChildren are suing governments over climate change inaction, with potential success due to innovative legal strategies. However, the need for climate action highlights the urgency and impact on future generations.

      The ongoing trial in Montana, where children are suing the government over climate change, is inspiring similar cases in other states and at the federal level. Legal experts believe this innovative legal strategy, which challenges the government's failure to protect the environment and future generations, has potential to win. However, it's disheartening that young people feel compelled to take such actions due to adults' inadequate response to the climate crisis. This situation underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and the profound impact of inaction on future generations.

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