Montana top court upholds landmark youth climate ruling

The Montana Supreme Court has made a significant ruling that supports the rights of young people to a clean environment. This decision comes after a group of 16 young activists, aged between five and 22, filed a lawsuit against the state. They argued that a law passed in 2011, which prohibited the consideration of climate change when making energy policy decisions, was unconstitutional. The court ruled in favor of the young plaintiffs with a vote of 6 to 1, affirming that they have a 'fundamental constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment. ' This ruling is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time a state supreme court has upheld such a claim. The young activists expressed their joy at the ruling, with Rikki Held, the lead plaintiff, stating that 'this ruling is a victory not just for us, but for every young person whose future is threatened by climate change. ' The lawsuit highlighted a constitutional clause that mandates the state to maintain and improve a clean environment for both current and future generations. The court acknowledged that the plaintiffs had demonstrated, without dispute, that climate change is currently harming Montana's environmental systems and will continue to do so in the future. This ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only in Montana but also in other states where similar lawsuits are being pursued. The Western Environmental Law Center, which represented the young activists, described the decision as a 'turning point in Montana's energy policy. ' They are committed to ensuring that the ruling is fully implemented. However, the state officials, including Governor Greg Gianforte, expressed disappointment with the court's decision. The governor indicated that his office is still evaluating the ruling but warned that it could lead to ongoing lawsuits that would waste taxpayer money and increase energy costs for residents. The young activists remain hopeful that this ruling will inspire others to take action for the environment. They believe that by standing up for their rights, they can help create a better future for themselves and for generations to come. Similar cases are already scheduled to be heard in other states, including Hawaii, Utah, and Alaska, as well as in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Colombia, and Uganda. The outcome of these cases could further influence how climate change is addressed in energy policies across the globe.