The Audio Long Read ‘All other avenues have been exhausted’: Is legal action the only way to save the planet?
May 23, 2025
Explore the dynamic role of legal action in environmental advocacy, highlighting stories of attorneys fighting for climate justice. Hear about the urgent battle to protect a historic tree and the intersection of human rights with environmental issues. Discover recent landmark cases that demonstrate the rise of climate litigation and the challenges faced by activists in navigating legal landscapes. The discussion includes the emotional connections people share with nature and the recognition of the rights of ecosystems in the quest for environmental protection.
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Tree Defense as Human Rights
- Monica Feria-Tinta advised Southend residents legally defending their historic tree called Chester.
- She linked tree protection to human rights impacted by environmental and economic factors.
Climate Litigation Complexity and Breakthroughs
- Climate litigation is complex due to diverse polluters and dispersed impacts.
- Successful cases are pioneering use of human rights law to hold states accountable internationally.
UN Climate Case Victory
- Monica Feria-Tinta led a groundbreaking UN Human Rights Committee case for Torres Strait Islanders.
- The case forced Australia to acknowledge climate change human rights violations and provide reparations.
