Young climate activists are celebrating another victory after Montana’s Supreme Court ruled in their favor for a second time. A lawsuit brought by the activists claimed the government violated their constitutional right to a clean environment.
Sixteen plaintiffs, now ages 7 to 23, sued the state of Montana in 2020. The case highlighted the state’s significant carbon dioxide emissions despite its Constitution guaranteeing “a clean and healthful environment … for present and future generations,” thus compelling the government to address global warming.
Montana obtains most of its energy from burning coal, making it a top oil and gas producer.
In 2023, a state judge sided with the climate activists. The judge ruled that the state violated their right to a “clean and healthful” environment. On Wednesday, Dec. 18, Montana‘s Supreme Court upheld that ruling in a 6-1 vote.
The court ultimately rejected the state’s argument that fossil fuel projects only produce a small amount of greenhouse gases. Montana also cited other states and countries contributing to carbon dioxide emissions in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Melissa Hornbein, an attorney for the activists, said the ruling will push Montana to pursue clean and renewable energy practices.
“This ruling clarifies that the Constitution sets a clear directive for Montana to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, which are among the highest in the nation on a per capita basis, and to transition to a clean, renewable energy future.”
Statement by the attorney for the plaintiffs, Melissa Hornbein
A plaintiff named in the case, Rikki Held, said the landmark ruling serves as a victory for every young person whose future is threatened by climate change.
Meanwhile, Montana’s attorney general said the lawsuit was meaningless, and the overall argument has no effect on the rest of the world.
Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte said the decision is under review, but lawsuits like these are a waste of taxpayer money and will increase energy bills across the state instead.
Hawaii, New York and Pennsylvania are among states that have environmental protections enshrined in their constitutions, similar to Montana.
