In this episode, host Richard Delevan dives into the transformative legal battles shaping the future of climate accountability. From Vermont’s trailblazing Climate Superfund law to New York’s bold move to hold oil and gas companies financially liable for adaptation costs, we explore the "pincer movement" of legislation and litigation forcing polluters to pay.

Joining the conversation is Dana Drugmand, founder of Climate in the Courts, who shares insights into the biggest legal wins of 2024 and what they mean for 2025. From Montana’s historic recognition of a constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment to groundbreaking rulings in Europe and the International Court of Justice, this episode unpacks how courts and laws are changing the climate accountability landscape.

Key Topics Covered:

• The growing momentum behind “polluter pays” laws in Vermont and New York
• Youth-led climate cases in Montana, Hawaii, and South Korea
• The role of human rights in climate litigation globally
• The International Court of Justice’s potential impact on global climate obligations
• How legal wins can drive innovation in climate technology

Links and Resources:

• Learn more about Vermont’s Climate Superfund law: Read here
• Details on New York’s Climate Superfund law: Read here
• Explore Dana Drugmand’s Climate in the Courts: Visit here
• ICJ Climate Hearings Overview: Learn more
• Polluter Pays Climate Fund Act Insights: Data for Progress

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Join us as we unpack the legal battles at the forefront of climate action and explore how they could reshape our future.

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