Environmental Psychology Groningen’s Post

The recent U.S. election marks another win for climate deregulation; and with it, an intensifying race toward environmental erosion. But this isn’t just an American story. In Argentina, we’re witnessing a similar dismantling of environmental protections under Javier Milei’s administration. My latest piece in Drilled Media explores the alarming parallels between Milei’s policies and Trump’s playbook: stripping regulations under the guise of “freedom” and “efficiency,” yet sidestepping the long-term consequences for communities and ecosystems. From Argentina to the U.S., climate denialism in policy means setting the stage for worsened water crises, toxic air, biodiversity loss, and a total breakdown in the safeguards that protect our landscapes and health. The consequences of environmental breakdown won’t be confined to any one border or institution. While leaders may deny or downplay climate realities, it’s on each of us to recognize the urgency and push for action, no matter the political winds.

Insufficient action on climate change remains a global concern, but recent developments are sparking hope for meaningful change. The European Court of Human Rights landmark ruling against Switzerland, for violating the Convention on Human Rights, sets a crucial precedent. In a victory for a women's association championing climate justice, this ruling highlights the power of legal action in holding governments accountable for their environmental responsibilities. This verdict not only delivers justice but also serves as a wake-up call for nations worldwide. With approximately 2500 climate-related lawsuits filed globally, it's evident that communities are demanding urgent action on decarbonization and emission reduction. These legal actions underscore the shared responsibility we all have in safeguarding our planet's future. As professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders, we must recognize the significance of these legal challenges. They signal a pivotal moment in our collective efforts to combat climate change. Let's heed this call to action and prioritize sustainable practices in our businesses, communities, and policy advocacy. Together, we can drive the transformative change needed to secure a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come. #ClimateAction #Sustainability #LegalJustice

📚 Reflections on The Conservative Environmentalist by Benjamin (Benji) Backer I recently finished The Conservative Environmentalist by Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition. The book offers a conservative perspective on how to address the climate crisis focusing on free markets and local solutions. A few takeaways: 1. Climate conversations suffer from polarized language and the attribution of ill intent As I read, I was struck by how politicized our language has become. Backer expressed ideas I factually agree with, but the language he used felt threatening. He also framed the problems with some progressive environmental policies—like the lack of transmission lines hindering renewable energy—as as intentional or at least negligent failures of the policy, while the media I usually consume frames these drawbacks as problems to be managed. (Political attribution bias) 2. Regulations can have unintended consequences Backer’s discussion of how well-intentioned regulations can backfire was eye opening. I had never heard of the “Shoot, Shovel, & Shut Up” phenomenon: landowners, frustrated with restrictions tied to endangered species, kill those species before they are discovered on their land to avoid burdensome regulation. This example helped me understand how regulation can create perverse incentives, especially for people who already distrust government intervention. 3. Local input can avoid unintended outcomes and tailor solutions The belief that local solutions to reducing emissions and increasing climate resilience are more effective and easier to implement than top down or one-size-fits-all solutions has been a theme in what I have been reading lately. Backer emphasizes this, especially with regard to rural communities. 4. What role can we trust fossil fuel companies play in the energy transition? Backer argues that fossil fuels—and fossil fuel companies—must play a role in for a successful energy transition. In particular, he states that American oil is cleaner than foreign, so increased American production (if it prevents consuming dirty foreign oil) is a good thing. He does not address the question of how fossil fuel companies can be trusted as partners after decades of deception about their climate impacts. I'd also be curious about his position on fossil fuel subsidies. This is definitely worth a read, especially if this is a perspective not typically expressed in your media bubble. I appreciate Backer's work to depolarize environmental action and wonder if he and others like him might have a particular important role to play in maintaining climate progress in the US over the next four years. What books have challenged your thinking recently? I'd love your recommendations! #DIYclimateEducation

This is epochal: the european court of human rights rules against Switzerland and in favour of the Klimaseniorinnen: Switzerland does not sufficiently adress climate change: „The Court found that the Swiss Confederation had failed to comply with its duties (“positive obligations”) under the Convention concerning climate change. There had been critical gaps in the process of putting in place the relevant domestic regulatory framework, including a failure by the Swiss authorities to quantify, through a carbon budget or otherwise, national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions limitations. Switzerland had also failed to meet its past GHG emission reduction targets. While recognising that national authorities enjoy wide discretion in relation to implementation of legislation and measures, the Court held, on the basis of the material before it, that the Swiss authorities had not acted in time and in an appropriate way to devise, develop and implement relevant legislation and measures in this case.“ https://lnkd.in/ddnv8NeJ

🌍 European Court of Human Rights  - Landmark Climate Rulings Approaching! April 9, 2024, is set to be a major moment for climate litigation as the European Court of Human Rights prepares to release its rulings on three landmark climate cases. These cases are not just about legalities; they represent a pivotal juncture for climate accountability and justice. The cases include: -               Verein Klimaseniorinnen Schweiz and Others v. Switzerland -               Carême v. France -               Duarte Agostinho and Others v. Portugal and 32 other States It is expected that the rulings will set a precedent, shaping the future of climate-related litigation not only in Europe but globally. In essence, these cases raise critical questions about States' obligations in the face of climate change, including: -               The duty of States to implement climate mitigation and adaptation policies to prevent foreseeable human rights harms. -               Determining who can claim protection and seek remedies under the European Convention of Human Rights. -               Addressing extra-territorial harms caused by activities under a State's jurisdiction. -               Incorporating the Paris Agreement and climate science into the interpretation of human rights obligations. The importance of this moment in international climate litigation isn't just about the legal technicalities but rather safeguarding our Planet and its inhabitants, present, and especially the future. One crucial aspect highlighted in these cases is the impact of climate change on children's rights. In ‘Duarte Agostinho and Others v. Portugal and 32 others’ children and youth are standing up, claiming that the forest fires in Portugal, exacerbated by global warming, directly threaten their health and well-being. They cite disrupted sleep patterns, allergies, respiratory problems, and anxiety as just some of the consequences they endure and are demanding that States fulfill their obligations under international conventions, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. #ClimateLitigation #HumanRights #ChildrensRights #ClimateChangeAwareness 🌱🌏 https://lnkd.in/dw-5ZQJi

The struggle of small islands for their survival concerns us fully and makes clear the gravity of the climate crisis. "A major case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) may pave the way for more climate change litigation and help for poorer and vulnerable states." Read more https://lnkd.in/ejEFYV-3 #unitednations #future #sustainability #extremeweather #climatechange

https://lnkd.in/dr4Tnf2u The European Court of Human Rights' verdict on Verein KlimaSeniorinnen Schweiz et al. vs Switzerland marks a crucial moment, recognizing climate inaction as a breach of human rights. This ruling underscores the imperative for immediate and effective state-led measures against climate change. #ClimateAction #HumanRights It’s a wake-up call for us all to advocate for policies ensuring our environmental efforts align with safeguarding human rights. Together, we can steer towards a sustainable and just future. #SustainableFuture #EnvironmentalJustice

Yesterday saw a landmark ruling by the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights (#ECHR) making the connection between #HumanRights and climate change (#globalwarming).#ClimateChange To be more precise, the ECHR delivered rulings in three different climate change cases. The facts of the three cases varied widely. Still, they all hinged on the question of whether government inaction on climate change had violated fundamental human rights. In two of the cases the applications were declared inadmissable. In the third case and landmark ruling (”Verein KlimaSeniorinnen Schweiz and Others v. Switzerland”), the ECHR held (by a majority of sixteen votes to one) that there had been a violation of Article 8 (right to respect for private and family life) of the European Convention on Human Rights and (unanimously) that there had been a violation of Article 6 § 1 (access to court). According to the court, there had been ”critical gaps in the process of putting in place the relevant domestic regulatory framework, including a failure by the Swiss authorities to quantify, through a carbon budget or otherwise, national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions limitations. Switzerland had also failed to meet its past GHG emission reduction targets. While recognising that national authorities enjoy wide discretion in relation to implementation of legislation and measures, the Court held, on the basis of the material before it, that the Swiss authorities had not acted in time and in an appropriate way to devise, develop and implement relevant legislation and measures in this case.” (See the Press Relase) The ruling is bindning and can influence all of the countries that are members of the Council of Europe. The ECHR established in 1959 sometimes calls itself ”the conscience of Europe” and in this case it demonstrates its objective to be a linchpin for the protection of human rights. A very interesting read indeed.

The European Court of Human Rights is about to deliver rulings on two landmark climate justice cases. These decisions could be a game-changer for how countries address climate change and protect human rights. It's no coincidence that the plaintiffs in these landmark cases represent groups most severely affected by climate change - women and youth. In "Verein KlimaSeniorinnen Schweiz and Others v. Switzerland," a group of Swiss women argue their government's inaction threatens their health, particularly during heatwaves. They believe this inaction violates their human rights. The second case, "Duarte Agostinho and Others v. Portugal and 32 Others," is particularly groundbreaking. Six young Portuguese citizens are suing a record-breaking 33 European countries! They claim these nations' failure to cut emissions fast enough jeopardizes their present and future health, violating their human rights. Rising temperatures already limit their ability to play outdoors and even impact their sleep. Experts warn of even more extreme weather events if emissions aren't curbed. Save the Children has played a significant role in this historic youth case through a legal intervention. The rulings are expected on April 9th. This is a critical moment for climate justice in Europe, with global implications.