A unanimous advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice has ruled that countries have a duty to prevent significant harm to the environment and use due diligence to prevent activities causing climate change. The court’s decision, which applies to all countries including the US, asserts that polluters can be held accountable for their actions.
The ruling was issued by 15 judges on behalf of the Republic of Vanuatu, which led a global effort to compel the UN to answer a crucial legal question about climate change. The court found that existing environmental treaties, international human rights law, and participation in the UN further compels countries to protect the climate.
Vanuatu’s Prime Minister Jotham Napat welcomed the decision, saying it could help vulnerable nations secure climate finance, technology, and support. However, some experts argue that the US is unlikely to be influenced by the ruling due to its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.
The opinion may have more significant international implications, as countries like Brazil are exploring climate change cases under their domestic court systems. The decision also opens the door for corporate polluters based in countries party to the UN and climate treaties to face accountability.
Vanuatu’s Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu expressed optimism that the ruling would lead to a “true turning point” in addressing climate change, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts across diplomacy, politics, litigation, and advocacy.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/un-court-polluters-greenhouse-gas-emissions