This week, a historic case has landed in a Montana courtroom. A group of young environmentalists is suing the state, arguing that its embrace of fossil fuels is destroying pristine environments, upending cultural traditions and robbing young residents of a healthy future.

David Gelles, a climate correspondent for The Times, explains why the case could be a turning point, and what a win in Montana would mean for the future of the climate fight.

Guest: David Gelles, a climate correspondent for The New York Times.

Background reading: 

• The landmark youth climate trial, which has been more than a decade in the making, began on Monday in Montana.
• Sixteen young Montanans have sued their state, arguing that its support of fossil fuels violates the state Constitution.

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