A group of young environmentalists in Montana are taking their state government to court over its failure to address climate change. The trial, which began on Monday, is one of the most high-profile climate lawsuits in the world.
The plaintiffs, who range in age from 13 to 25, argue that Montana has violated their constitutional rights to a clean and healthful environment, as well as their rights to due process and equal protection. They are asking the court to order the state to adopt a science-based plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect natural resources.
The case, known as MEIC v. Montana, was first filed in 2011 by seven youths who were represented by the Montana Environmental Information Center (MEIC) and Our Children’s Trust, a nonprofit organization that supports youth-led climate litigation. Since then, the case has faced multiple delays and appeals from the state, which has argued that climate policy is a matter for the legislature and the executive branch, not the courts.
However, in June 2020, the Montana Supreme Court ruled that the case could proceed to trial, rejecting the state’s motion to dismiss. The trial is expected to last two weeks and will feature expert testimony from climate scientists, economists, and public health officials.
The plaintiffs hope that their case will set a precedent for other states and countries to take action on climate change. They also hope that their case will inspire other young people to stand up for their future.
“We are not just fighting for ourselves, we are fighting for everyone,” said Kelsey Juliana, 25, one of the original plaintiffs who is now a co-director of Our Children’s Trust. “We are fighting for our children, our grandchildren, and all future generations.”
