Young Activists Petition Supreme Court on Climate Case

Young climate activists from Oregon have petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to revive their landmark lawsuit against the federal government, arguing they possess a constitutional right to a livable climate. This petition comes after a federal appeals court dismissed their case earlier this year, a ruling the activists and their supporters claim undermines public trust in the judicial system. Initially filed in 2015 by 21 plaintiffs, the lawsuit has faced challenges from multiple presidential administrations, which argue it improperly seeks to influence environmental policies through the courts rather than through the political process. Julia Olson of Our Children’s Trust, which represents the plaintiffs, emphasizes the need for the case to be heard in court to uphold the principle of fair process. The activists have noted that ongoing delays and dismissals have significantly impacted their ability to seek justice. The petition follows a significant ruling earlier this year by the Montana Supreme Court that requires regulators to consider the implications of greenhouse gas emissions before granting fossil fuel permits.