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Judges' interpretations of the law significantly impact climate policy

Judges' interpretations of the law significantly impact climate policy

Presidential environmental regulations often face court challenges, shaping policies on climate, water, air, and wildlife.

Nathan Rott reports for NPR.

In short:

  • Environmental rules, regardless of the president, are frequently challenged in court.
  • Lower federal courts, where thousands of decisions are made, often have the final say.
  • Recent judicial appointments have emphasized partisan alignment over experience, affecting court decisions on environmental issues.

Key quote:

“I do think we need a Supreme Court, appellate courts, trial courts, that respect the law and respect facts and avoid this kind of activist bent.”

— DJ Gerken, president of the Southern Environmental Law Center

Why this matters:

Judges' rulings shape the effectiveness of environmental regulations, impacting the government's ability to address critical climate issues. Increased judicial skepticism can undermine efforts to manage emerging environmental challenges.

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Italian Supreme Court to rule on Greenpeace climate lawsuit against Eni

Italian Supreme Court to rule on Greenpeace climate lawsuit against Eni

Greenpeace Italy and ReCommon have appealed to Italy’s Supreme Court to expedite their climate lawsuit against oil giant Eni, arguing a dismissal would hinder future climate litigation in the country.

Stella Levantesi reports for DeSmog.

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Pipeline project faces tribunal over environmental and Indigenous rights violations

Pipeline project faces tribunal over environmental and Indigenous rights violations

The Mountain Valley Pipeline, now operational, was recently condemned at a "rights of nature" tribunal for infringing on environmental and Indigenous rights.

Hannah Chanatry reports for Inside Climate News.

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Climate protest defense strategy hits a legal wall in England and Wales
Credit: Ma Ti/Unsplash

Climate protest defense strategy hits a legal wall in England and Wales

Climate activists in England and Wales face a significant setback as a key legal defense is stripped away.

Sandra Laville reports for The Guardian.

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puerto rico street
Credit: SFLAD/Pixabay

Puerto Rico commits to solar incentives as mainland states pull back

Puerto Rico extends solar incentives while other states reduce them, showcasing commitment to renewable energy.

Gabriela Aoun Angueira reports for Grist.

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supreme court

US federal courts scrutinize energy regulation and climate change in 2024

In a pivotal year, federal courts are set to decide on cases that could significantly alter energy regulators' approach to climate change.

Niina H. Farah reports for E&E News.

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courtroom
Photo by Robert Linder on Unsplash

Climate scientists occupy the hot seat in mock trial training

A Minnesota mock courtroom lays bare one of the thorniest issues confronting climate litigation: Scientific evidence.
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