Small Island Developing States Win: GHGs Declared Ocean Pollutants

The legal frameworks for climate-related litigation are strengthened by the ITLOS advisory opinion, which classifies greenhouse gases as marine pollutants. This decision enables Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to advocate for more stringent climate action and to access climate financing. The ruling underscores the pressing necessity for global collaboration to mitigate the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems, despite opposition from several State Parties.

ICJ Asked To Clarify Countries’ Obligations To Fight Climate Change

In a historic unanimous resolution the UNGA asked the ICJ to clarify what are states’ obligations to combat the climate crisisPacific island students originated and fought for this, eventually getting more than 120 states on boardWhile not binding, the ICJ’s opinion can provide an important argument in future climate litigation cases and encourage governments’ to strengthen their climate action