5 Takeaways from the Montana Climate Trial as We Await a Historic Ruling

CLIMATEWIRE | HELENA, Mont. — Sixteen young people who sued the state of Montana over its deference to the fossil fuel industry wrapped up the nation’s first youth-led climate trial earlier this week and now await a ruling.

 

Eleven of the young challengers took the stand in Held v. Montana, testifying about the effects of climate change on the Treasure State’s iconic glaciers and trout streams. A parade of experts offered evidence about the impact of burning fossil fuels.

 

Montana has called the trial a “publicity stunt,” and its lawyers have downplayed the state’s contribution to climate change, saying the issue is a global one.

 

Our Children’s Trust, the Oregon-based law firm representing the youth, said it expects a ruling in the case to take weeks, if not months.

 

Here are five takeaways from the seven days of the first U.S. youth climate trial.

 

1. THE OUTCOME COULD MARK A ‘SEA CHANGE’

Judge Kathy Seeley, who presided over the case, has already said she lacks authority to issue an injunctive ruling, such as an order requiring Montana to develop a plan to phase out fossil fuels.

 

But even a declaratory decision that says the government is violating the state Constitution’s right to a “clean and healthful environment” would be groundbreaking, legal observers say. Such a ruling could serve as precedent for other litigants looking to hold state governments and oil and gas companies accountable for contributing to climate change.

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Article URL : https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/5-takeaways-from-the-montana-climate-trial-as-we-await-a-historic-ruling/