Supreme Court Puts an End to Youth Climate Change Lawsuit

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected an appeal by 21 youths wanting to revive their lawsuit against the U.S. government, alleging its energy policies violate rights to climate protection. This marks the end of Juliana v. United States, although youth-led climate actions continue to spark nationwide movements.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday turned down an appeal by a group of 21 young activists seeking to revive a lawsuit accusing the U.S. government of violating their climate rights with its energy policies. The justices refused to hear the appeal, upholding a 9th U.S. Circuit Court decision directing a federal judge to dismiss the case due to lack of legal standing.

The case, known as Juliana v. United States, was one of the most high-profile climate change lawsuits driven by youth activism, contributing significantly to a broader youth-led movement advocating for climate rights. Julia Olson, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, stated that the court's decision is not the end of the movement or its impact.

The U.S. Department of Justice welcomed the decision, with Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson remarking that it concludes the lengthy legal proceedings. Despite setbacks, youth activists continue to challenge state and federal policies in courts, marking significant accomplishments like Montana's constitutional recognition of climate stability and Hawaii's effort to decarbonize transit by 2045.

(With inputs from agencies.)