Watch: ‘Major victory’ in youth-led constitutional challenge of Ontario emissions target

(Oct. 17, 2024)

‘Major victory’ in youth-led constitutional challenge of Ontario emissions target Ontario’s top court has sent a youth-led constitutional challenge of the government’s emissions target back to the lower court for a new hearing. It’s the first case in Canada to consider whether governments’ approach to climate change has the potential to violate the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Background:

Seven youth from Ontario are celebrating a groundbreaking victory from the province’s highest court. The Court of Appeal has ruled in their favor in a youth-led climate lawsuit against the Ontario government. The decision confirms that Ontario’s weak climate targets are putting the lives and well-being of its residents at risk.

Ontario had argued that its climate actions were not bound by the Charter, but the Court completely rejected this claim. The Court of Appeal clarified the issues, highlighting Ontario’s insufficient climate goals and confirming that the province must align its climate response with the high standards of the Charter. A new hearing has been ordered, requiring Ontario to defend its poor climate record.

The seven youth remain hopeful and will continue to push for action with the urgency the climate crisis demands.

For more information, visit ecojustice.ca.

Watch the press conference below:

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