The case the youth have against the state

A group of Utah youth is standing up to lawmakers and outdated environmental policies with a lawsuit that outlines the effect these policies have on the future. 

Here in Utah, we’ve seen the dramatic effects of climate change. From drought to out of control wildfires, poor air quality and extreme temperatures, it’s difficult to ignore. Even more so for young people living here who are left with the question “how much worse will it get?”

Utah’s energy and environmental policies have favored the fossil fuel industry over the health and well being of residents. “Every day that the state continues to promote and systematically authorize fossil fuel development worsens Utah’s dangerous air pollution and climate crisis and further endangers these youth’s lives, health, and safety,” the lawyer representing the youth argued at their first hearing early this month. 

A Salt Lake Tribune article on the lawsuit writes “On any given day, 100,000 barrels of oil and 35,000 tons of coal are extracted from the ground in Utah. Those fossil fuels will turn into millions of pounds of greenhouse gases and air pollution when they are processed and burned.

This is a tiny portion of global emissions driving climate change, but it is the share within the power of Utah policymakers to influence.”

We are waiting on a ruling from the judge to hear if the case will proceed to trial. Thanks to all who attended the hearing earlier this month, or the rally to support the youth. They are on the front-lines of the fight for a healthy and livable future for all Utahns.