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Today we’re checking in with Gen Z as they take legal action in the state of Montana to put the pressure on climate lawmakers. Let’s get in to it.

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Mo’ntana, Mo’ Problems

This week, 16 plaintiffs took their case to judges in Montana against a law which prohibits state agencies from considering environmental effects when it permits the release of greenhouse gases.

Wait what?

Yep. Earlier this year, Montana passed a law which specifically prevents state entities from considering climate impact when it decides to give the go-ahead to power generation projects. 

Remember all this talk about scope 3 emissions? Well the state gave gave the concept a massive middle finger.

In response, 16 young people aged 5-22 have acted as the plaintiffs in the case where they are suing the government for violating their right to a clean and healthy environment. 

I don’t know about you but when the Strawman was 5, he could barely put his straw in his capri-sun on his own.

One by one, the plaintiffs in the case ran through their personal stories with a focus on the impact climate change was having on their lives. From the impact of forest fires on their ability to spend time outdoors to the exacerbated effects of asthma due to air quality, each of the young people made the case that the law needs to be struck down.

License to Pollute

The judge’s response is expected in the next couple of months but even if they rule in favour, activists are worried that little will change on a state level.

The state argues that Montana is insignificant when it comes to emissions but at the same time, along with Wyoming it’s home to the Powder River Basin which produces 40% of the coal in the U.S. Most projects, will likely keep on going as usual.

Despite this, the ruling could set a powerful precedent for the permitting process in power generation projects. Activists hope that it can be a step toward creating a clear framework by which new projects are assessed with climate impact at the heart of the process.

On top of this, the case was supported by Our Children’s Trust, an environmental advocacy group. They mean business. Having raised over $20m to date, they’re supporting across dozens of similar cases all the way from the Supreme Court of the U.S. to emerging economies such as Colombia, Uganda, and Pakistan.

A ruling in favour would set a strong tone for the organisation to continue the good fight and take things further. They’re hoping the involvement of young plaintiffs can inspire older generations to participate with the same level of passion.

Regardless of the way the ruling goes, the pressure is clearly mounting on state authorities to take action - here’s hoping it comes sooner rather than later.

‘til next time.

The Strawman