World Court Rules U.S. Legally Obligated to Curb Climate Change

What happened: The United Nations’ highest court ruled that all governments must protect present and future generations from climate change harm.

Why it matters: The UN Courts’ groundbreaking ruling affirms that no country — including the U.S. — can avoid its legal obligation to drastically reduce climate emissions, even if it pulls out of the Paris Agreement.

Earthjustice believes that we all have a right to a healthy environment, and we’ll never stop fighting for that right.

What does the UN’s ruling mean?

• The law is clear: ALL nations must tackle climate change or face legal consequences for causing harm to the environment.
• How did this ruling come about? Activists and small island nations have spent years lobbying the U.N. General Assembly, asking the high court to take up the legal question of climate change. In July 2025, they finally issued their groundbreaking advisory opinion.
• Earthjustice has long argued for recognition of the human right to a healthy and sustainable environment, which was officially recognized by the UN in 2022.

What happens next?

• In the U.S.: Though non-binding, the high court’s opinion provides guidance to other courts and governments in the U.S. who are pushing for state and local climate action in lieu of a federal response. Learn more about how states like New York and California are taking the lead on climate action, with Earthjustice’s help.
• Internationally: By affirming a legal right to a healthy and sustainable environment, the U.N. is bolstering international efforts to fight fossil fuel projects that worsen climate change. Learn more about how Earthjustice’s partners in South Africa are using litigation to protect communities and fight climate change.