Juliana v. United States

Definition

Juliana v. United States is a landmark climate change lawsuit filed in 2015 by a group of young plaintiffs against the federal government, asserting that the government's actions and policies contribute to climate change, violating their constitutional rights to life, liberty, and property. This case connects deeply to environmental regulation and climate change litigation as it seeks judicial intervention to compel the government to take meaningful action on climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for effective environmental policies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The plaintiffs in Juliana v. United States argue that climate change poses a direct threat to their futures, with adverse effects on their health, safety, and well-being.
2. The case was initially dismissed by a federal court in 2020 but garnered significant media attention and support from environmental organizations and activists.
3. In 2021, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled that the case could proceed, recognizing the importance of addressing climate change through the judicial system.
4. Juliana v. United States represents one of the first cases where young individuals have taken legal action against their government over climate change impacts, highlighting intergenerational justice.
5. The lawsuit underscores the role of the judiciary in enforcing environmental regulations and responding to the challenges posed by climate change.

Review Questions

• How does Juliana v. United States illustrate the intersection between youth activism and climate change litigation?
  • Juliana v. United States showcases how youth activism is becoming increasingly influential in legal battles against climate change. The young plaintiffs are not only advocating for their rights but also seeking to hold the government accountable for its role in exacerbating climate issues. This case highlights a shift where young individuals are using the legal system as a platform to demand action on climate policy, thereby blending activism with litigation.
• What are some key arguments made by the plaintiffs in Juliana v. United States regarding their constitutional rights?
  • The plaintiffs argue that the government's failure to address climate change effectively infringes upon their constitutional rights, including the right to life, liberty, and property. They contend that ongoing environmental degradation caused by government actions jeopardizes their future well-being and poses significant threats to their health and safety. These claims emphasize the necessity for robust governmental action on environmental regulation as a means of protecting these fundamental rights.
• Evaluate the implications of Juliana v. United States for future climate change litigation and environmental policy reform.
  • Juliana v. United States sets a significant precedent for future climate change litigation by demonstrating that courts can play a vital role in enforcing governmental accountability regarding environmental policies. If successful, this case could pave the way for similar lawsuits across the country and encourage more rigorous regulatory frameworks aimed at mitigating climate change. Furthermore, it may prompt policymakers to take more proactive steps toward sustainable practices, recognizing that failure to act could lead to legal consequences.

Related terms

Public Trust Doctrine: A legal principle that asserts certain natural resources are preserved for public use and that the government has a responsibility to protect these resources for current and future generations.

Environmental Law: A body of law that governs the interactions between humans and the environment, aiming to protect natural resources and public health while regulating pollution and land use.

Youth Activism: A movement in which young people engage in efforts to advocate for social, political, and environmental changes, often focusing on issues like climate change and sustainability.