In a new lawsuit, eighteen young Californians allege that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is discriminating against children by permitting harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
The lawsuit follows a landmark victory in Montana, challenging the federal government's environmental stewardship.
It accuses the EPA of failing in its duty to control climate pollution, impacting children's health.
The case, Genesis B. v. EPA, is part of a growing trend of youth-led environmental litigation.
Key quote:
“There is one federal agency explicitly tasked with keeping the air clean and controlling pollution to protect the health of every child and the welfare of a nation — the EPA.”
— Julia Olson, Executive Director of Our Children's Trust
Why this matters:
The lawsuit underscores the increasing role of legal actions in climate change advocacy, highlighting the EPA's responsibility in safeguarding public health, particularly that of children. Its outcome could set a precedent for future environmental policies and actions. Do you think it's important for young people to be at the forefront of environmental advocacy?
