The Planet on the Docket: Atmospheric Trust Litigation to Protect Earth's Climate System and Habitability

Abstract

As climate crisis intensifies and scientists warn that the planet approaches irreversible tipping points, the need for government action is imminent. Yet, nearly across the board, legislatures and agencies continue to sit idle in face of unprecedented urgency. This keynote address urges strong judicial rulings in Atmospheric Trust Litigation (ATL), a global campaign that asserts government's fiduciary obligation to protect the functioning of the climate system needed by present and future generations for survival and welfare. ATL seeks injunctive relief requiring government actors to develop enforceable climate recovery plans that will reduce carbon emissions within their respective jurisdictions by the amount called for by best available science.