Hawaii Settles Lawsuit From Youths Over Climate Change. Here’s What To Know.

"HONOLULU — About two years after 13 children and teens sued Hawaii over the threat posed by climate change, both sides reached a settlement that includes an ambitious requirement to decarbonize the state’s transportation system over the next 21 years.

It’s another example of a younger generation channeling their frustration with the government’s response to the climate crisis into a legal battle.

Navahine v. Hawaii Department of Transportation is the world’s first youth-led constitutional climate case addressing climate pollution from the transportation sector, according to statements from both sides.

The lawsuit said one plaintiff, a 14-year-old Native Hawaiian, was from a family that farmed taro for more than 10 generations. However, extreme droughts and heavy rains caused by climate change have reduced crop yields and threatened her ability to continue the cultural practice."

Jennifer Sinco Kelleher reports for the Associated Press June 21, 2024.

Source: AP, 06/24/2024