The first-ever youth-led US climate lawsuit was won!

The Story

16 brave young people aged 5-22 sued the state of Montana, arguing that their right to a healthy, livable environment is protected by state law. As the Montana constitution specifically states this right, their arguments were strong.

This was the first youth-led climate lawsuit to go to trial in the US, so there was a lot on the line. Thankfully, the ruling came out in their favor!

With the ruling won, it's now confirmed that state agencies were violating constitutional rights, and the state must now require the consideration of climate impacts of energy projects.

The outcome of this story gives hope to the many pending legal cases against governments and polluters around the world, hinting at a new era of accountability.

Young environmental activists prevail in first-of-its-kind climate change trial in Montana

Young environmental activists scored a ground-breaking legal victory when a Montana judge said state agencies were violating their constitutional right to a clean environment by allowing fossil fuel development without considering its effects on climate change.

AP NewsAMY BETH HANSON and MATTHEW BROWN

Take Action

Legal battles aren't won alone. Help secure more future climate justice victories by supporting some of the legal organizations suing Big Oil:

Our Children's Trust

Earthjustice

ClientEarth

Center for International Environmental Law

Natural Justice