15 Canadian Kids Sue Their Government for Failing to Address Climate Change

The young plaintiffs are already dealing with effects of wildfires, flooding, and thawing permafrost. They say the government is contributing to the climate crisis.

Fifteen children and teenagers from across Canada sued their government on Friday for supporting fossil fuels that drive climate change, which they say is jeopardizing their rights as Canadian citizens.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Vancouver, is the latest from young climate advocates around the globe who are increasingly leading public protests and filing legal challenges to make their concerns about their future in a warming world heard.

"The federal government is knowingly contributing to the climate crisis by continuing to support and promote fossil fuels and through that they are violating our charter rights," said Sierra Robinson, 17, a youth climate activist and plaintiff in the case from Vancouver Island, Canada.  

"Our natural resources are at risk because of climate change, and as a young person my rights are being violated disproportionately compared to older generations," she said.  "Since we can't vote, we have to seek protection from the courts."

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