Inter-American court reviews corporate roles in climate change crises
A pivotal hearing at the Inter-American Court of Human Rights examines whether businesses can be held legally accountable for climate change impacts on human rights.
Isabella Kaminski reports for DeSmog.
In short:
- Legal and activist communities at the Inter-American Court urge businesses to prevent climate change-related human rights violations.
- Key arguments emphasize the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable populations in Latin America and the Caribbean.
- Legal experts advocate for stringent regulations on industries to uphold human rights amidst escalating climate threats.
Key quote:
“It’s not possible to guarantee human rights without combating climate change. And it’s not possible to combat climate change without regulating business conduct ... ”
— Nikki Reisch, director of climate and energy at the Center for International Environmental Law
Why this matters:
Businesses, particularly in industries like manufacturing, energy, and agriculture, have been significant contributors to carbon emissions and environmental changes that affect basic human needs—access to clean water, safe housing, and secure food sources.
If businesses can be held liable for harming the climate, then it could lead to new standards of corporate behavior, forcing companies to reconsider their environmental policies and practices.
