The legal framework linking human rights to the environment

Aistė Zakarauskaitė

At first sight, human rights and the environment may not have much in common. However, all people depend on the environment in which they live. Without a safe and healthy environment, people may struggle to meet minimal living conditions. Therefore, this article links human rights to the environment and highlights a legal framework ensuring the implementation of human rights in an environmental context.

The link between human rights and the environment

All people feel the impacts of climate change every day – social, economical life and healthcare. Climate changes in the environment such as drought, hurricanes, and flood put at risk primary human rights which includes the right to health, education, housing etc. The United Nations (UN) stresses that a safe, clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is integral to the full enjoyment of a wide range of human rights, including the rights to life, health, food, water and sanitation [1]. Therefore, the legal framework ensuring people have access to a safe and healthy environment is a must.

The human rights and the environment mandate

In 2012 the UN created the human rights and the environment mandate [1]. The purpose of this mandate is to identify challenges and obstacles to the global recognition and implementation of human rights, promote best practices of the use of human rights in environmental policymaking, conduct country visits and respond to human rights violations [2]. The current mandate holder is David R. Boyd who is an associate professor of law, policy, and sustainability at the University of British Columbia [3]. According to UN, The Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment is mandated, among other things, to promote and report on the realization of human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment, and to disseminate his findings by, inter alia, continuing to give particular emphasis to practical solutions with regard to their implementation [2]. Therefore, this mandate contributes to developing a dialogue with all relevant stakeholders to enhance public awareness of the human rights obligations relating to the enjoyment of a safe environment.

A clean and healthy environment is a universal human right

On 28 July 2022, the UN General Assembly adopted a historic resolution declaring that access to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is a universal human right [4]. This resolution calls upon states, international organizations, and business enterprises to scale efforts to ensure a healthy environment for all. According to the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, “The resolution will help reduce environmental injustices, close protection gaps and empower people, especially those that are in vulnerable situations, including environmental human rights defenders, children, youth, women and indigenous peoples” [4]. It’s very important to help those in need because environmental changes primarily affect marginalized people and developing countries.

This resolution is co-sponsored by over 100 countries and notes that the right to a healthy environment is related to existing international law and affirms that its promotion requires the full implementation of multilateral environmental agreements. The resolution covers three main interlinked environmental threats that humanity currently faces: climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss [4]. Therefore, it is a major step forward in ensuring the rights of all people and prioritizing climate issues.

It's important to mention that environmental actions and legal frameworks based on human rights obligations provide necessary guardrails for economic policies and business models. As well as it helps accelerate the implementation of environmental and human rights obligations and commitments. Hence, every adopted new document or change in the legal framework to ensure a safe environment helps to ensure human rights in the environmental context.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1] United Nations. (2022). About human rights and the environment. Read more:
[2] United Nations. (2022). Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment. Read more:
[3] United Nations. (2022). Current mandate holder. Read more:
[4] UN General Assembly declares access to clean and healthy environment a universal human right. (2022). Read more:

Climate justice in practice

Aistė Zakarauskaitė

The term “climate justice” describes a movement that acknowledges climate change can have differing social, economic, public health, and other adverse impacts on people [1]. These impacts can be especially noticeable on the underprivileged population who face climate change consequences such as floods, windstorms, earthquakes, or droughts. However, climate change affects all people around the globe putting at risk people’s right to health, self-determination, housing etc. Therefore, this article highlights the main case laws and good practices examples of climate justice in Denmark, Estonia, and Lithuania in order to ensure human rights and environmental protection.

Denmark. In Denmark, the Ministry of the Environment is the main authority that administers environmental policy [2]. Denmark’s authority has committed to making climate neutrality happen even if drastic measures are needed. In 2019 Denmark's parliament adopted a new climate law committing to reduce the country's carbon emissions to 70% by 2050. This law is very strict and according to Climate Home News, “Every five years, the government must set a legally binding emissions target across sectors of the economy including energy, housing, industry, transportation, agriculture, and forestry. Parliament holds the minister for climate and energy accountable and can force that person out of office if insufficient progress is made.” [8]

Different non-governmental organisations (NGOs) also play an important role in ensuring the protection of Denmark's environment. One of the NGOs is NOAH which is a part of another international NGO – Friends of the Earth International [3, 4]. This non-governmental organisation is fighting against the inequalities raised by global warming by increasing the possibilities and establishment of community-owned energy systems and ensuring renewable and sustainable energy. For example, 50% of electricity in Denmark is supplied by wind and solar power in 2020 [5].

Another innovative practice that Denmark is planning to use by the end of 2022 is climate labelling for food [6]. This policy which is called “Denmark climate labels” seeks to promote climate-friendly food production and help shoppers make sustainable choices when buying food. According to the NYC Food Policy Center, “The labels will indicate the carbon footprint of various foods so that shoppers will be able to see whether or not the food has been produced in a way that is good for the environment.” [6]. This policy is aimed to highlight that climate change has a negative effect on food supplies and food security, as rising heat and frequent natural disasters destroy crops, resulting in decreased quality of the food which can impact people’s health.

Estonia. The task of the Estonian Ministry of the Environment is to organise and coordinate environmental policy. This involves national environmental and nature protection, management of the use, protection, recycling, and registration of natural resources, environmental awareness, promotion etc. [9].

One of the main climate justice challenges in Estonia is food security. Estonia has always been a colder country and farmers have adapted to winter or cold-resistant types of crops. However, during the last couple of years, many crops are dying due to a lack of precipitation [10]. Unsafe food is a public health challenge linked to global warming and drought which is closely connected to ensuring climate justice. Therefore, Estonian NGOs also play a crucial role in ensuring human rights and climate justice. The Estonian Green Movement is a non-governmental, non-profit environmental organisation which focuses on environmental and developmental issues [11]. This NGO is also a part of the organization Friends of the Earth International together with Denmark’s NGO. The Estonian Green Movement advocates for the environmental needs of Estonia’s inhabitants and protects Estonian natural resources at grassroots, national, and international levels. Their activities focus on energy, sustainable consumption, transportation, and water [11]. This organisation also works towards exiting oil shale use by 2035 acknowledging that oil shale, large-scale biomass burning, or a nuclear plant are environmentally unfriendly solutions.

Lithuania. Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania adopted the Climate Change Management Act which determines the rights, duties and responsibilities of persons carrying out economic activities during which greenhouse gasses are emitted into the atmosphere, the competence of state institutions and bodies, the issuing of certificates for the management of fluorinated greenhouse gasses, suspension of their validity, cancellation of the suspension of validity and the validity of certificates essential requirements for abolition [12]. This is one of the main laws acknowledging climate change issues in Lithuania. However, the term “climate justice” is not adopted by Lithuanian law.

Even though “climate justice” still doesn’t appear in Lithuanian laws, citizens are working towards mitigating climate change and ensuring climate justice. Many people are choosing to recycle and look for more sustainable options in their everyday lives (for example sustainable bags for vegetables, paper straws, plastic, or metal water bottles etc.). Some people are choosing to express their rights of assembly and protest. In 2019 a protest inspired by climate change activist Greta Thunberg happened in Vilnius. The goal of this protest was to inform about climate justice and seek that all countries who signed the Paris agreement would adhere to it [13]. Therefore, in Lithuania, the term “climate justice” is appearing in people’s expressions through protests rather than in law.

International obligations. Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, and other European countries have signed the Paris agreement in 2015. According to the United Nations, “The Paris agreement’s goal is to limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels.” [7]. The European countries agreed to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions by up to 55% during the 2021-2030. The Paris Agreement also provides a framework for financial, technical, and capacity-building support to those countries who need it acknowledging that some countries are more affected by climate change and need more resources than others [7].

Even though climate change actions are a long-term process, more and more countries have already sparked low-carbon solutions and new markets after the Paris agreement [7]. This change is most noticeable in the power and transport sectors, and it has created many new business opportunities.

To sum up, actions towards ensuring climate justice must be made. No matter how big or small those actions are, they all go towards strengthening climate justice and ensuring basic human rights such as the right to health, self-determination, clean food and water, education, meaningful and informed participation etc.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1] What is ‘climate justice’? (2020). Read more:
[2] Ministry of Environment of Denmark. (2022). Read more:
[3] Friends of the Earth International. (2022). Read more:
[4] NOAH. (2022). Read more:
[5] Green thinking. (2022). Pioneers in clean energy. Read more:
[6] Denmark to Become First Country to Develop Climate Label for Food. (2022). Read more:
[7] The Paris Agreement. (2015). Read more:
[8] Denmark Floats a Possible Model for Climate Policy. (2020). Read more:
[9] Estonia - Environment & the Fight against Climate Change. (2022). Read more:
[10] Climate Change in Estonia. (2021). Read more:
[11] The Estonian Green Movement. Read more:
[12] Climate Change Management Law of the Republic of Lithuania. (2009). Read more:
[13] Protest in Lithuania. (2019). Read more:

Using civil and human rights to mitigate climate change

Rugilė Zmitrevičiūtė

Activism and civil action are crucial in the climate change context. By expressing and using such human rights as right to assembly, right to freedom of speech, and also executing civil rights, a real change can be made. Climate change activism is becoming more emotional and it shows that people started to understand that climate change is not just a practical problem that should be solved but more of a life-death question. Environmental activists are involved on a very personal level and rather than observing the natural world from afar and being on top of it, they feel a part of it. [1] In this article a few examples of an effective human and civil rights execution and their meaning for climate change will be discussed.

Hold businesses accountable. Businesses and large corporations are known for using greenwashing (when more money is spent on sustainability marketing instead of actual sustainability in the company). Also, companies sometimes pass over the responsibility to the consumers, even though their impact on climate change is tremendous. According to the Carbon Disclosure Project 70% of greenhouse gas emissions in the past twenty years can be tracked down to 100 fossil fuel producers. [2]

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has found that fossil fuels (coal and oil being most influential) are the main cause of global warming and in 2018, 89% of global CO2 emissions came from fossil fuels and their industry. [3] Therefore - students in the UK took action. The Fossil Free campaign was launched by People&Planet (largest student network in the UK) and the main goal of it is to get public institutions to stop using fossil fuels. This way it is expected to do the damage for fossil fuel companies. Fossil Free believes that it is unfair to profit from something that is destroying the planet. Already 60% of UK universities have made some form of commitment to extract themselves from fossil fuels companies funding. [4]

In order to reduce the usage of fossil fuels and profits from the industry that is destroying the earth, fossil fuel divestment is being widely used and encouraged by climate action activists. Divestment is the opposite of investment and usually it is chosen for ethical reasons, especially in the climate change context. Divestment means a critical stand against the fossil fuels industry’s harmful practices and environmental impact. [5] It is important to be aware of our choices as consumers and do not forget the huge impact large corporations have on climate change.

Hold politicians accountable. Politicians have a future of the climate in their hands as mitigation of climate change depends on political decisions. Therefore, it is always crucial to keep it in mind while voting in elections. Data shows that people are feeling frustrated with lack of political will as governments fail to act. Most unhappy nations with their politicians are South Africa, France. [6] In modern world technology to combat climate change is also really advanced, however due to lack of action from politicians it is not used effectively. [7]

Not only voting can help to hold politicians accountable. Activism, social campaigns and society’s pressure can also mean a lot. Climate change social campaigns are aimed to raise awareness and change attitudes and behavior of society and to mobilize people to put pressure on policymakers for effective climate crisis solutions. [8] One of the impactful campaigns was executed by Greenpeace and TckTckTck in 2009 and it was directed towards personal responsibility of politicians. Posters portraying politicians such as Barack Obama in the future offered an opportunity for leaders to choose a more positive future by acting now.

It is also crucial to execute freedom of speech and the right to assembly and organize protest, petitions and other advocacy towards a better and more sustainable future.

Community action. Climate change severely affects many communities - some of them are affected more than others. Many Strong Voices (MSV) - is a campaign of the Arctic and small island developing states inhabitants, who are the ones who have contributed least to climate change and yet are the ones who are suffering most. Programme works to connect such indigenous communities from around the world. For example, even though the Arctic and its melting glaciers are featured in many campaigns, in MSV inhabitants speak for themselves, strive to address the threat of climate change, and bring security and sustainability for their communities and homes. [9] MSV believes that their voices are not heard enough in the international community, however they continue their battle with climate change consequences nevertheless. MSV works to reduce energy demand and to increase renewable energy supplies as well as give up diesel fuel. [10]

Cities, towns and neighborhoods no matter small or big, can help to mitigate climate change. For example, during the Rethink Glasgow project a special website was created, which allowed Glasgow residents to make suggestions about how to make specific places of the city more sustainable and green. During the project thousands of proposals were received and they all are currently being considered for the city’s climate action plan. [11] Inspiring examples can be found even in rural places. In Belize three Mayan women, solar engineers, decided to contribute to the sustainable development of their small indigenous community, where it is hard and expensive to get electricity, by installing solar energy systems. [12] Examples show that using your rights as a community is important, can have a tremendous effect and help solve climate change problems.

All in all, activism and enhancing human and civil rights can help climate change mitigation by pressuring politicians, businesses and speaking up, acting for your community. Therefore, it is important to understand and use your rights for the better future of our planet.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1] The new climate change activism is emotional, and it’s a good thing, Louise Knops, The Loop, ECPR’s Political Science Blog.
[2] How companies blame you for climate change, William Park, BBC, 2022.
[3] Fossil fuels and climate change: the facts, ClientEarth, 2022.
[4] Fossil Free, People&Planet.
[5] What is Fossil Fuel Divestment? (Why Does it Matter?), Unity College, America’s Environmental College, 2022.
[6] The world is on fire and our leaders are failing, poll finds, Ryan Heath, Politico, 2022.
[7] We Have the Technology to Solve Climate Change. What We Need Is Political Will, Alejandro de la Garza, Time, 2022.
[8] Climate change and social campaigns, Raducu, Raluca, et al., Journal of Medicine and Life 13.4, 2020.
[9] Many Strong Voices, Mark Notaras, Our World, United Nations University, 2009.
[10] Spotlight: Many Strong Voices, The Climate and Migration Coalition.
[11] 6 examples of community engagement in climate action, Charlotte Cooper, Commonplace, 2022.
[12] Small solutions, big impacts: 5 community-based projects tackling climate change, United Nations News, 2022.

Equality and non-discrimination in climate crisis context

Rugilė Zmitrevičiūtė

Climate change affects such human rights as the right to health, food, water, sanitation and adequate housing. Unfortunately, due to global inequality some countries and/or communities are affected by climate change more severely than others. Therefore, the fundamental principles of human rights – equality and non-discrimination are very important in climate change context. International community is urging everyone to pay attention to the inequality’s effect on environmental human rights. For example, The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) highlights the disproportionate impacts of climate change on the most marginalized regions and communities. OHCHR also notes that immediate action is required to ensure that climate actions benefit people in vulnerable situations and that it is crucial to reduce inequalities in this field. [1] In this article several fields (such as race and gender) will be discussed, explaining the link between climate change,equality and non-discrimination principles.

Racial injustice and climate crisis

Equal and non-discriminatory climate change movement cannot be developed without proper attention to race. Because of racial inequality, part of our society suffers from the consequences of climate change more severely. That is especially true in the Global South, where people suffer major effects of climate change (such as famine or water shortage), even though their impact on climate change is relatively small. For example, the most under-reported humanitarian crisis caused by climate change is Zambia’s. In 2021 flooding and droughts affected food security and accessibility in Zambia and even now more than one million people are living with extreme hunger. This crisis did not receive any proper media attention or international community’s help. [2]

Due to entrenched structural inequalities similar racial divides exist not only internationally but within the countries too. [3] Some activists claim that historical and present-day injustices have their toll on racial minority groups' well-being and how much climate issues affect them. For example, due to historical situation of black people in USA (slavery, which means worse health care, food, etc.) they are are suffering from asthma and upper respiratory diseases more often, therefore they are more severely affected by the air pollution. Also, resource distribution is important – some of the communities (for example black people in the USA) have to deal with water and food security issues due to lack of leadership from the decision makers. [4] Also, people of color neighborhoods are often exposed to more pollution due to industrial infrastructure or landfill sites. [5]

Climate crisis is not gender-neutral

Another important aspect is gender. The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women explain that women and girls experience the greatest impacts of climate change and that deepens already existing gender inequalities. Climate crisis multiplies the threats, especially for girls and women in low-income countries. Climate crisis also drives conflict across the world. In this context, women and girls face increased risk to all forms of gender-based violence. Furthermore, in face of natural disasters, which become more frequent due to climate change, women are less likely to survive and more likely to be injured due to long standing gender inequalities that have created disparities in information, mobility, decision-making, and access to resources and training. There is also a bigger threat to women's health as climate change related diseases affect them more fatally, especially during pregnancy. [6]

To sum up, academics identify that initial inequality in countries and globally cause some groups to suffer disproportionately from the climate crisis. Social groups that already suffer from discrimination and/or inequality, are not only exposed to climate change more severly but also are more vulnerable to its effects. Their ability to cope and recover from the damage of issues resulting from climate change is aggravated. [7] And even as the world progresses towards a low-carbon economy and renewable energy sources some of the communities and countries do not have resources to combat climate change, therefore they are excluded. It is important to understand that climate crisis cannot be solved without paying attention to all people and without ensuring equality and non-discrimination.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1] Understanding Human Rights and Climate Change, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
[2] The Most Under-Reported Humanitarian Crises of 2021, Care International, 2021.
[3] Why climate change is inherently racist, Jeremy Williams, BBC Future, 2022.
[4] Unequal Impact: The Deep Links Between Racism and Climate Change, Beth Gardiner, Yale School of the Environment, 2020.
[5] Why climate change is inherently racist, Jeremy Williams, BBC Future, 2022.
[6] Explainer: How gender inequality and climate change are interconnected, The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, 2022.
[7] Climate Change and Social Inequality, S. Nazrul Islam and John Winkel, United Nations Department of Economic & Social Affairs, 2017.

The importance of the right of expression and the right of assembly in environmental protection

Aistė Zakarauskaitė

The right of expression

The right to expression must be guaranteed for everyone. According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Article 19, “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression. This right includes the freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.” [1]. This right covers the expression of views aloud through public protest and demonstrations, published articles, books or leaflets, television, or radio broadcasting, works of art, the internet, social media, and other forms of expression.

However, even though the right of expression is very broad, it is not absolute and can be restricted. The freedom of expression means to have a duty to behave responsibly and to respect other people’s rights. Examples of violations of the right of expression are defamation, hate speech, discrimination, unlawful disclosure of private information.

It is important to note that freedom of expression also applies to the opportunity to freely share and receive any information [2]. That includes reading a particular newspaper or website, listening to a radio programme, watching a TV station, or visiting a particular theme art exposition.

One of the examples of a violation of this right is greenwashing. According to “Climate Consulting by Selectra'' greenwashing is “The practice of marketing a company or organisation so they appear more environmentally friendly or more ecological when in practice its activities pollute the environment.” [7]. Therefore, companies use green and more sustainable looking logos and packaging to mislead consumers. Examples of companies which use some sort of greenwashing or false advertisement are “Lush” because their products contain toxic ingredients, “McDonald’s” paper straws in 2019 turned out to be non-recyclable and so on [8]. Therefore, it is necessary to draw attention if companies submit proof, ingredients lists and information on why their products are eco-friendly and sustainable.

The right of assembly

The right of assembly includes the freedom to organize public protests, demonstrations, and meetings. According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Article 20, “Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association.” [1]. This includes advocating and raising awareness about relevant issues such as human rights, socio-economic rights, climate change issues, healthcare and so on. The right of the assembly comprises the right to freely choose the location and the timing of the assembly, including public streets, roads, and squares [3].

Unfortunately, as the Human Rights House Foundation notices, in some cases, governments violate the right of assembly as a method of suppressing dissent and critical voices [3]. In some cases, protestors are subject to arrest, violence, threats, or intimidation. The only cases when legal authorities can stop protests or demonstrations are to protect civilian’s security, prevent crime, protect the rights and freedoms of other people and in other similar situations when it’s legally acceptable.

Interestingly enough, some climate change protesters are volunteering to be arrested during protests, however, they face ever-increasing punishments handed down by the courts [9]. Climate activist Zain Haq, who was sentenced to 9 days in jail said that “Protesters show the government they are not afraid and will not back down. This takes power away from the government and gives it to the people.” [9]. However, in this case, it is important to mention that even though the protesters agree to be arrested, legal authorities have no right to arrest people without a legal basis.

The right of expression and the right of assembly in environmental protection

The rights of expression and assembly are crucial to environmental protection. The ability to freely share views and information about climate change consequences through public protests, demonstrations, social media, and other sources is essential to draw people’s attention to serious issues all around the world. According to John H. Knox, UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights, and the Environment, “The obligations of States to respect and protect the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly encompass the exercise of those rights in relation to environmental matters.” [4]. That means states have responsibilities under human rights law related to the enjoyment of a safe, clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.

It is also important to emphasize that environmental rights such as the right to food, clean water, suitable shelter etc are an extension of the basic human rights [5]. However, these rights are not always protected, especially in developing countries which suffer more intense climate change consequences (i.e., droughts, windstorms, hurricanes, heat waves, tornadoes etc). Therefore, the freedom of expression and assembly can help to increase the knowledge about violations of these human rights.

Examples of most famous climate change protests around the world

On 15th March 2019, students around the world skipped school to protest against inaction on climate change consequences. This protest was called “Students Climate Strike” and was inspired by the actions of Swedish teenager and climate change activist Greta Thunberg [6]. This protest is also known as “Fridays for Future” because of school students who skipped Friday classes to participate in demonstrations to demand action from political leaders to prevent climate change. The protest “Students Climate Strike” is a great example of the combination of the right to expression and assembly through a demonstration against inaction on climate change consequences.

Another example of environmental protests is the designer Vivienne Westwood’s fashion show in 2019 [6]. She used her London Fashion Week show to protest climate change, sending models down the catwalk covered in climate change slogans. Many models also made speeches addressing consumerism and the threat of climate change. This example shows how important is to use different platforms to express climate change issues through something like a fashion show where a lot of people gather, and the essential message may spread more easily.

In Lithuania, climate change protests are still a new area. One of the most recent protests in Lithuania happened in 2020. The theme of the protest was chosen to be the “Earth Funeral” demonstration [10]. During the protest, the activists carried a black coffin and were also dressed as if they were coming to the funeral - in black. The protest expressed dissatisfaction with Lithuania's current climate change policy and stressed that people are killing themselves and our Earth if they do not take action.

In conclusion, the freedom of expressing climate change issues through assembling can help to educate society about this topic, even find meaningful solutions and start making changes in the environmental protection area. However, it is crucial that these rights would be protected legally, and actions were taken only when other people’s rights are violated.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1] The Universal Declaration of Human Rights. (1948). Read more:
[2] The Human Rights Guide. (2021). Read more:
[3] The Human Rights House Foundation. (2018). Freedom of assembly. Read more:
[4]. UN Framework Principles on Human Rights and the Environment. (2018). Read more:
[5] The Pachamama Alliance. (2021). Environmental Rights. Read more:
[6] The most inspiring climate change protests around the world. (2019). Read more:
[7] Greenwashing: definition and examples. [2022]. Read more:
[8] Greenwashing: 10 recent stand-out examples. (2021). Read more:
[9] Meet the Protesters Going to Jail to Fight Climate Change. (2022). Read more:
[10] Climate change protest in Lithuania. (2020). Klimato kaitos aktyvistai proteste skelbia „Žemės laidotuves“: žudome save ir Žemę. Read more:

Climate refugees

Aistė Zakarauskaitė

What is a “climate refugee”?

All people around the world are feeling the effects of climate change. However, according to the World Economic Forum, developing countries more severely feel the consequences of climate change such as droughts, windstorms, hurricanes, heat waves, tornadoes, and other climate disasters [1]. It deprives individuals of daily safe food, clean water, and other basic needs. The World Economic Forum emphasizes that one of the biggest climate change threats is sea-level rise. It is mentioned that for example “In Bangladesh, it is predicted that 17% of the country will be submerged by the rise in sea level by 2050, and 20 million people living there will lose their homes.” [1]. Every year sea level rises 3.2 mm. [8]. Meaning that not only the developing countries, but all countries which are surrounded by the seas are at risk which could lead to migration.

Therefore, people are forced to move and look for safer spaces that they could call home. According to the World Economic Forum: “Concept of climate refugees is described as the increasing large-scale migration and cross-border mass movements of people that were partly caused by weather-related disasters” [1]. It is important to mention that because of climate change fundamental human rights of refugees are being constantly violated – the right to self-determination and housing. Extreme weather conditions destroy people's houses leaving them with no self-determination choice where to live, threatening indigenous people's traditional living area's survival [2]. Another common term to define “climate refugee” is “environmental refugee/migrant” meaning the same – people leaving their homes because of climate change-related disasters [3].

Statistics – climate refugees around the world

According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, “Since 2008 over 318 million people around the world have been forcibly displaced by floods, windstorms, earthquakes, or droughts” [3]. And in 2020 “30.7 million people were displaced because of environmental disasters, notably linked to climate change from 145 countries and territories.” [7]. This data shows that every year people experience the effects of climate change, forcing them to leave their homes. For example, the most affected by climate change in 2021 was Vanuatu - 260 459 people (per million inhabitants) were forced to leave their homes [7]. 41 274 (per million inhabitants) people were displaced because of climate conditions in Fiji [7]. According to statistical data from the Global internal displacement database, most climate refugees are from East Asia and the Pacific – 39% of the world’s climate refugees.

Laws protecting climate refugees

In 1951 “The Refugee Convention” was adopted. However, this convention only offers protection to those fleeing war and conflict who face persecution on grounds of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion [4]. That implies those who leave their countries in the context of climate change or disasters do not qualify for protection under international law. However, the situation is slowly changing. According to The UN Refugee Agency, “People may have a valid claim for refugee status, for example, where the adverse effects of climate change interact with armed conflict and violence.” [5]. Some people according to this convention are able to claim their “climate refugees” status. In 2018 the United Nations also released the Global Compact on Refugees which acknowledged that “Climate, environmental degradation and natural disasters increasingly interact with the drivers of refugee movements.” [6]. That means international organizations are taking action to ensure that people who have left their homes because of damaging climate conditions would be protected. Nevertheless, it is necessary to protect fundamental human rights, connected to climate change more effectively as the threats are beyond the control of climate refugees and the long-lasting process may put people's safety and even lives at risk.

Every year climate change causes negative impacts on economics, health and people’s social life. All of those factors affect people’s living conditions. Therefore, people are forced to leave their homes and the term “climate refugees” appears. Due to climate change, people’s fundamental human rights such as the right to self-determination, the right to health, and the right to housing are in danger as well. It is crucial to protect people’s rights and educate society about climate change's impact on people's living quality in order to make this phenomenon more seen and understood globally.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1]World Economic Forum. (2021). Climate refugees – the world’s forgotten victims. Read more:
[2]Understanding Human Rights and Climate Change. (2015). Read more
[3]European Parliament. The concept of climate refugee. (2021). Read more:
[4]The 1951 Refugee Convention. Read more:
[5]The UN Refugee Agency. Climate change and disaster displacement. (2021). Read more:
[6]Global Compact on Refugees. (2018). Read more:
[7]Global internal displacement database, 2020. Read more:
[8]Climate Change: Global Sea Level. (2020). Read more:

The importance of environmental human rights

Rugilė Zmitrevičiūtė

With the climate situation worsening, the threat for human environmental rights becomes more severe. Human rights and environmental issues share a bilateral connection. Human rights cannot be ensured without a clean and healthy environment, and sustainable environmental governance cannot exist without the respect for human rights. [1] According to the World Health Organization climate change is expected to cause approximately 250 000 additional deaths per year between 2030 and 2050. However, developing countries are in an especially vulnerable position. [2] In this article we will look at the importance of a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment, which is one of the essential human rights.

Why are environmental human rights important? First of all, increasingly frequent extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, storms and floods lead to death and illness. Also, due to climate change, food production and water supply systems can be disrupted and zoonotic diseases are on a rise. It is also worth noting that developing countries are affected by climate change more severely, even though their impact on climate change is the least and these countries do not have the resources to combat it alone. [2]

The 2020 Climate Risk Index (which reflects countries' vulnerability to the direct consequences of climate change — deaths and economic losses) determined the 10 countries presently most affected by climate change. The top 3 countries are: Japan, which is severely affected by heavy rains, heat waves, earthquakes, and typhoons, Philippines due to torrential rainfalls and typhoons and Germany due to heat waves that destroyed almost the whole agriculture sector. [3] Due to the serious climate change effect on peoples’ lives and health it is extremely important to pay attention to environmental human rights.

First time environmental human rights were addressed in 1972 during the United Nations Conference on the Environment in Stockholm. The United Nations Member States then declared that people have a fundamental right to "an environment of a quality that permits a life of dignity and wellbeing" and in 2021 access to a healthy and sustainable environment was recognized as a universal right by the United Nations. [4] [5] This means that with a guarantee of non dicrimination clean air, safe and sufficient water, healthy and sustainably produced food, a safe climate, biodiversity and toxic-free environment must be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere and is a vital human right. [6]

How does it affect human health? Due to humanity’s consumerism, large scale production and transportation air is polluted. Air contaminated by unclean fuels can lead to such health problems like heart diseases, strokes and lung cancer. [7] Air pollution causes 8.8 million extra deaths a year worldwide - more than 90% of deaths related to air pollution occur in low and middle income countries. [8]

Also, because of uncontrollable growth of agriculture and industry, the barrier between wildlife and humans drastically thinned. Therefore, diseases like COVID-19 are emerging as they are caused by activities that bring increasing numbers of people into direct contact and often conflict with the animals that carry pathogens. It is also estimated that pandemics will become a more frequent phenomenon. [9]

Water crisis is also severe and fatally dangerous. Extreme weather changes cause disasters like droughts and floods, which can destroy or contaminate water supplies and increase the risk of diseases like cholera and typhoid. Also, rising temperatures can lead to deadly pathogens in freshwater sources, making the water dangerous for people to drink. Sadly, the water crisis affects low income countries and children more intensely. [10]

All in all, due to human actions, the climate crisis is worsening and it becomes dangerous or even deadly for humans themselves. Action must be taken to ensure the right to a healthy and sustainable environment, which means the right to breath fresh air, to have access to sustainably produced food and access to clean water. A guarantee of non discrimination must not be forgotten as well - the right to a healthy and sustainable environment must be guaranteed to all the citizens of all countries and everyone must have an equal acess to it.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1] What are environmental rights? United Nations Environment Programme
[2] Climate change and health, World Health Organization, 2021
[3] Which countries are most threatened by and vulnerable to climate change? Iberdrola, 2020
[4] The right to a healthy environment: 6 things you need to know, United Nations, 2021
[5] Shelton, Dinah, "Human rights and the environment: what specific environmental rights have been recognized." Denver Journal of International Law and Policy 35 (2006): 129-171.
[6] Recognizing the human right to a healthy environment, United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and Environment, 2021
[7] Why destroying the planet is bad for human health and what we can do about it, Rosie Frost, Euronews.green, 2020
[8] Air pollution causes 800,000 extra deaths a year in Europe and 8.8 million worldwide, European Society of Cardiology, European Heart Journal, 2019
[9] COVID-19 Stimulus Measures Must Save Lives, Protect Livelihoods, and Safeguard Nature to Reduce the Risk of Future Pandemics, Josef Settele, Sandra Díaz, Eduardo Brondizio, Dr. Peter Daszak, The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, 2020
[10] Water and the global climate crisis: 10 things you should know, UNICEF, 2022

Technology prospects for climate change

Rugilė Zmitrevičiūtė

According to The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) scientists, global temperatures will continue to rise, possibly even up by 12,2 celsius over the next century. [nasa] Climate change is threatening because it is affecting the most essential resources for people and wildlife - such as access to fresh water and air, food production, and habitable ambient temperature. Human activities remain the main reason for climate change and its pace. [1] However, what technological progress started to destroy it might fix as well. As we all know such technological achievements as electric cars, renewable energy resources, etc. this article reviews other interesting and extraordinary technological innovations that might help to tackle climate change.

Methane-free food industry. As grazing animals create a third of methane emissions (which are 85 times more heat-trapping than CO2) action for climate change might as well start with cows. U.K. based company has invented a halter that monitors methane exhaust, and zaps it with a catalyst, creating water and less-harmful CO2. It is expected that the device can lower methane emissions created by cows by 50%. [2]

Giant vacuum cleaners freshen the air. As concentrations of carbon dioxide are shockingly increasing, direct air capture (DAC) technology might be a solution. Giant vacuum cleaners remove CO2 straight from the atmosphere, directing it underground. An interesting fact is that it might be re-used - for example, it can be used as a fertilizer in farms or for carbonation of drinks. [3]

Carbon emissions-free traveling. Electric cars are already in the market, however, technology does not stop there. The future with electric planes is near and it is much needed as airplanes contribute to about 2% of the world’s carbon emissions. First world’s fully electric commercial aircraft took off in 2019 from Vancouver, Canada. [4] Maritime shipping emissions are even bigger and contribute to 2.5% of global carbon emissions. Here technology offers hydrogen ships, which create energy from hydrogen gas and release only water. It is expected that the first hydrogen ferry will connect Oslo and Copenhagen by 2027 and save 64,000 tons of CO2 annually. [5]

Clean oceans - mission (im)possible. The Netherlands-based nonprofit engineering environmental organization has created a new technology to remove plastic waste from the ocean. The new technology involves plastic interceptors, which are solar-powered barriers and conveyor systems that use river currents to pull plastic into containers. The Ocean Cleanup project expects to be able to remove 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040. [6]

Save the bees - save the planet. Climate change is one of the reasons why the bee population is declining. Bees are essential for food supply chains as they not only produce honey but also pollinate crops, fruits, and vegetables. Luckily there is a technological solution to save bees. Many companies from Ireland to Israel are launching sensors that track the state of hives and help beekeepers to save the bee population. [7]

As global warming remains a very serious issue it is important to use complex technological advancements that would tackle main industries and issues deteriorating the planet. Hopefully, humanity has the potential to repair what it has destroyed.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1]The Effects of Climate Change, NASA.
[2]New Tech to Tackle the Climate Crisis, Tim Dickinson, Rolling Stones, 2021.
[3]Can tech help fight climate change? Five innovations making a difference today, Ryan Loftus, Secure Futures.
[4]The world’s first fully electric commercial aircraft has taken to the skies, Tom Austin-Morgan, Eureka, 2020.
[5]New Tech to Tackle the Climate Crisis, Tim Dickinson, Rolling Stones, 2021.
[6]New Technology Being Used to Remove Large Amounts of Ocean Plastic, Abigail Jane, One Green Planet, 2021.
[7]How smart tech could help save the world's honey bees, Adrian Lydon, CNN Business, 2020.

The connection between human rights and climate change

Aistė Zakarauskaitė

Climate change is often perceived as an ecological problem, while human rights are described as universal legal guarantees that protect individuals, groups, and peoples against actions and omissions that interfere with their fundamental freedoms and entitlements [2]. It can be often difficult to link these concepts due to their different meanings. However, climate change can also have different social, economic, and public health impacts on people, which connects it to human rights [1].

The right to life. One of the main human rights is the right to life and climate change poses a threat to human life. Drought, increased heat, expanding disease vectors are impacting the quality of life and health [2]. Lack of clean water and safe food are also affecting people’s health. According to a report by the Climate Vulnerable Forum and DARA International, climate change is already responsible for approximately 400,000 deaths per year [3]. The World Health Organization addresses that between 2030 and 2050, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250 000 additional deaths per year, from malnutrition, malaria, and heat stress [4]. Usually, developing countries are mostly affected by climate change. According to the Fifth Assessment Report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “People who are socially, economically, culturally, politically, institutionally or otherwise marginalized are especially vulnerable to climate change and also to some adaptation and mitigation responses” [5]. However, climate change impacts everyone's life one way or the other and may impact the right to health or even life. Therefore, action is needed to ensure these human rights.

The right to health. As it was mentioned, climate change affects everyone's right to health. According to a World Bank report, “Climate change causes health impacts that are likely to increase and be exacerbated by high rates of malnutrition. Including potential increases in vector-borne diseases and heat-amplified levels of smog that could exacerbate respiratory disorders” [2]. It's important to stress that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights mentions the importance of the right to physical and mental health, hence, all states must take appropriate action.

The right to self-determination. Another main human right is self-determination. Every state must respect the right to self-determination of all people and ensure that they have the necessary resources to provide for themselves [2]. But climate change poses a threat to people’s ways of life and livelihoods, as well as to the survival of entire nations. According to United Nations Special Rapporteurs, “Climate change challenges the ability of people on small island states to continue to live on their traditional territory and to enjoy and exercise their right to self-determination” [6]. Indigenous people’s self-determination rights are in danger due to global warming and sea-level rise because they might not have a choice to continue living in their traditional areas. Therefore, the risk of self-determination raises a challenge to people's right to housing.

The right to housing. Climate change threatens the right to housing in many ways. Extreme weather events can destroy homes displacing multitudes of people. Drought, erosion, and flooding can gradually render territories inhabitable resulting in displacement and migration. Sea level rise threatens the very land upon which houses in low-lying areas are situated [2]. Everyone's right to housing and determination where to live is at risk due to climate change.

The right to safe food and clean water. Everyone should have access to safe food and clean water. However, climate change negatively affects these fundamental human rights. According to Ana Maria Suarez Franco, a permanent representative in Geneva for food first information and action network (FIAN), “Extreme events, including droughts and floods, the salinization of water used for irrigation, desertification, water shortages are affecting the availability of food in the country and cities” [2]. Water availability is also threatened by climate change. According to a World Bank report, “A 2-degree Celsius average global increase in temperature may result in 1 to 2 billion no longer having enough water to meet their needs” [2]. Global warming will continue to affect water availability putting in danger people’s right to health and life.

Climate change affects many human rights, endangering people’s living conditions and threatening people’s survival. It is worth mentioning that it also negatively impacts such human rights as the right to development, education, meaningful and informed participation. Reduced access to needed resources is a threat to ensuring equality and non-discrimination. Therefore, the effects of climate change threaten all the people on the planet and their rights.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1]What is “climate justice”? (2020). Read more:
[2]Understanding Human Rights and Climate Change. (2015). Read more:
[3]Climate vulnerability monitor. (2012). Read more:
[4]Climate change and health. (2021). Read more:
[5]AR5 Synthesis Report: Climate Change. (2014). Read more
[6]The Effects of Climate Change on the Full Enjoyment of Human Rights. (2015). Read more:

Mitigating climate change

Rugilė Zmitrevičiūtė

Even though scientists constantly warn the public and officials about the dangers of climate change, not enough action is taken to avoid drastic consequences. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration emphasizes that reducing and stabilizing the amount of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere is a key to mitigating climate change. The aim of climate change mitigation is to prevent human intervention in the climate system and stabilize difficult situations caused by rapid climate change over a period sufficient for ecosystems to naturally adapt to climate change. [1] The current situation is extremely serious. For now 1179 tons of carbon dioxide is being released to the atmosphere every second and this number is still rising. For decades, the climate sensitivity ranged between 1.5°C and 4.5°C and now it is up to 2.5°C and 4°C. [2] Everyone is adding up to this crisis, therefore it is time to change our habits and choose wisely. This article will look at ways to reduce climate change at the individual and community level.

What can we all do to mitigate climate change?

CO2 is a major contributor to the greenhouse effect, so it is vital to limit the use of fossil fuels in daily lives and replace them with renewable and cleaner energy sources such as solar panels, wind farms, etc. Although fossil fuel usage has been growing in emerging economies over the past decade, there is good news as well. Since 1971 global dependence on fossil fuels has declined significantly and this trend is likely to continue as countries switch to renewable energy. [3] For example, Morocco has built the largest solar power plant in the world and Denmark has set a world record for generating more than half of all its electricity from wind farms. [4] The Baltic States are also working towards climate change mitigation. For example Lithuania does not produce much greenhouse gas emissions as it is ranked 96th in the world by mentioned emissions. [5] It is expected that the country will continue to improve as it is complying with EU standards and set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% (compared to 1990) till 2030. [6] Estonia’s government also puts climate change as a priority and promised to phase out oil shale electricity production in Estonia by 2035. [7]

Of course, renewable energy is quite expensive, therefore, not accessible to everyone. However, people often underestimate their ability to change the world. Personal choices can mean a lot, especially when they become a habit. What can each of us do differently to mitigate climate change?

Community level actions

Use your voice and civil rights. Politicians are responsible for decisions that will either help or demolish mitigation of climate change. Even small decisions regarding green spaces, city infrastructure or transport laws have a huge impact. Therefore, it is important to exercise your civil rights – sign petitions, protest, participate in demonstrations and vote for politicians, who implement policies related to climate change.

Take action and encourage others. Community has a critical role in climate change mitigation. It is important to participate or organize events and initiatives related to climate change. For example, an environmental club in one of Massachusetts high schools set out to decrease their local community’s consumption of single-use plastics. After two years of consistent civil action their project succeeded. The Town of Lincoln and Sudbury approved the plastic bottle and bag reduction bylaws, becoming the third and fourth Massachusetts communities to ban single-use plastic bottles and joining the growing ranks of more than four dozen that had banned the free distribution of single-use plastic bags. [8] Climate activists and their actions create a buzz and raise awareness in the media and society, therefore politicians tend to pay attention to the agenda activists are setting.

Strong community is the key. Scientists’ evidence shows that usage of renewable energy sources, changes in transportation and diets can reduce the carbon footprint by 24%, 11%, and 7%, respectively. It is necessary to stress that bottom-up initiatives present many positive dimensions besides climate change mitigation. Such initiatives can also improve community’s resilience by strengthening local economies and enhancing social cohesion. [9]

Individual choice means a lot

Choose wisely as a consumer. Adapt your choices regarding food, clothes, and other goods for the sake of the planet. The fashion industry produces 10% of all humanity’s carbon emissions. It is also the world’s second largest industry, consuming water supply, [10] consequently people’s choices in fashion matter greatly. Choosing local, sustainable brands or thrifting can make a huge difference. Another harmful industry is meat production - it makes up more than 14% of all human-made greenhouse gasses, including methane, which is up to 34 times more damaging to the environment. [11] Choosing plant-based food is not only beneficial for your health but also for the environment.

Change your every-day habits. Leave your car (if you have one) at home and travel by more environmentally friendly transport options. For example, by choosing public transport you can save 30% of carbon dioxide emissions produced by your household. [12] Also, save energy by always switching off the lights when you do not need them and appliances you do not use. If it is possible, go further – choose energy saving appliances and renewable energy sources. Small, every-day habits can mean a lot while trying to mitigate climate change.

All in all, while a huge part of responsibility lies on the shoulders of the government and businesses, people as a community and as individuals can make a tremendous change by using their voice and thoroughly changing their habits.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1]Responding to Climate Change, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
[2]What’s the worst that could happen?, U.Irfan, Vox, 2021.
[3]Fossil Fuel Dependency By Country, J. Dillinger, WorldAtlas, 2017.
[4]11 countries leading the charge on renewable energy, Climate Council, 2019
[5]ŠESD mažinimas Lietuvoje, Klimato kaita, 2021.
[6]Lietuvos respublikos Nacionalinis energetikos ir klimato srities veiksmų planas 2021-2030m.
[7]Estonia’s new government has made climate topics its priority, H.Saarniit, SEI, 2021.
[8]Burke, Eleanor, et al. "Teen activism leads to local laws banning single-use plastics: a two-year experiential learning journey." Sustainable Earth 3.1 (2020): 1-14.
[9]Landholm, David M., et al. "Climate change mitigation potential of community-based initiatives in Europe." Regional Environmental Change 19.4 (2019): 927-938
[10]Fast Fashion and its Environmental Impacts, BCHS Environmental Club Newsletter, 2021.
[11]Climate change: Do I need to stop eating meat?, BBC News, 2021.
[12]Environmental Benefits of Public Transit, KCATA.

Climate justice

Aistė Zakarauskaitė

Climate justice is closely related to climate change and its consequences. Climate justice describes a concept that acknowledges climate change can have differing social, economic, public health, and other adverse impacts on underprivileged populations [1]. It is determined by human activity and the effects are already being felt by plants, animals and of course people across the globe. Accordingly, the impacts of climate change are not evenly distributed throughout the planet. The developing countries, particularly those whose economies are dependent on agriculture, are most affected despite having contributed least to climate change [2].

The term “justice” is generally understood as something right, fair, or appropriate. This means that the developing countries and people should be supported by those who have affected climate change the most. Industrialization and the burning of fossil fuel oil, coal and natural gas have determined the most to climate change causing the greenhouse effect [3]. Therefore, industrialized and developing countries should join forces to ensure the physical, economic, social, and environmental well-being of all people.

Principles of climate justice

According to Mary Robinson Foundation, “Climate justice links human rights and development to achieve a human-centred approach, safeguarding the rights of the most vulnerable people and sharing the burdens and benefits of climate change and its impacts equitably and fairly.” [4]. It is observed that low-income communities, people of colour, indigenous people, people with disabilities, older or very young people, women - all can be more susceptible to risks posed by climate impacts like raging storms and floods, increasing wildfire, severe heat, poor air quality, inequality, access to clean water and safe food [1]. These groups are the most vulnerable in society, therefore climate justice includes human rights and social inequality to ensure equal opportunities.

Challenges of climate justice in partner countries - Denmark and Estonia

For a long time, the main challenge for Denmark has been air, river, and lake pollution, which threatened water quality and citizens health [6]. However, according to the Climate Action organization, “Since the 1970s, Denmark has managed to readjust its energy model from being highly dependent on imported oil, to being one of the greenest and most energy-efficient countries in the world. By 2050, Denmark aims to be independent of fossil fuels.” [6]. This means that Denmark aims to contribute to reducing global warming, secure a high standard of living and sustain economic growth. 2021-2022 EIB Climate Survey showed that 53% of the Danish population thinks that Denmark will succeed in drastically reducing its carbon emissions by 2050 [7]. Just over half of the Danish population are positive about climate change mitigation and the achievement of climate justice.

Although Estonia is the smallest country in the Baltic States, it faces several challenges related to climate change and the achievement of climate justice. According to the campaign of Climate Justice for All, “Estonia has always been a cold country and farmers have adapted to winter or cold-resistant types of crops, this year many crops are dying due to lack of precipitation. Food security is already threatened due to these climate changes.” [5]. Unsafe food is a public health challenge linked to global warming and drought. Estonia is also facing more challenges such as hazards of water quality from waste that is released into rivers, sea-level rise, heat waves, the spread of alien species, including new plant pests and pathogenic agents, and so on. Therefore, it is essential to pursue climate justice and mitigate the effects of climate change in Estonia, providing people with a safe environment.

In Lithuania, the concept of climate justice is still new. However, more and more people are paying attention to climate change, its consequences in their everyday (social, health, etc.) life, contributing to sorting and nature conservation. The concept of a sustainable environment is gaining popularity and small businesses selling sustainable items are gaining more visibility. Organizations are encouraged to pursue projects related to climate justice and public awareness. Nevertheless, people in Lithuania still lack knowledge about climate justice, hence it is very important to raise awareness of this concept.

Achievement of climate justice

According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), it is important that industrialized countries must first and foremost take domestic action against climate change and are obliged to assist developing countries in adapting to climate change through capacity building and technology transfer [8]. Three suggestions were provided for industrialized countries:

1. to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to levels that will prevent dangerous human-induced interference with the climate system;

2. to provide short and long-term climate finance to help the most vulnerable countries adapt to climate impacts as well as pursue low carbon development strategies;

3. to ensure capacity building and needed technology transfer (such as salt-resistant crops, clean energy solutions and so on) to help the most vulnerable become more resilient to climate change.

These proposals are important for achieving climate justice and equality between people from different backgrounds, providing security and appropriate living conditions. It is also important to keep in mind the cooperation that includes the voices of all those who are being affected by climate change because climate change is affecting people differently across the globe. Therefore it is essential to discuss the needs of each country in terms of climate change and to ensure climate justice. That being the case, it's necessary to analyze the connection between climate justice and human rights.

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers in Lithuania.

References:

[1]What is “climate justice”? 2020. Read more.
[2]The Geography of Climate Justice, 2011. Read more.
[3]Kas yra klimato kaita? 2020. Read more.
[4]Mary Robinson Foundation, 2020. Read more.
[5]Climate Change in Estonia, 2021. Read more.
[6]A Danish solution to a global challenge? 2015. Read more.
[7]2021-2022 EIB Climate Survey results. Read more.
[8]United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), 1992. Read more.

Climate change

Sandra Matoškaitė

Climate change is caused by global warming. Throughout history warm periods were replaced by ice ages and ice ages were replaced by warm periods - such cycles always lasted for tens of thousands or millions of years [1]. However, over the last 150 years (period of industrialization), the average temperature has risen faster than ever [1]. Since the industrial revolution, humans have released huge amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which is one of the main causes of global warming and accordingly - climate change.

According to Amnesty International, “It has become clear that humanity has caused most of the last century’s warming by releasing heat-trapping gases-commonly referred to as greenhouse gases - to power our modern lives.“ [2] It is important to understand that climate change is mostly driven by the burning of fossil fuels - oil, coal, and natural gas - which emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Other human activities, such as agriculture and deforestation, also contribute to the increase [1]. It is worth noting that the greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon, which warms up the Earth and makes it possible for us to live on this planet. However, this phenomenon can be affected by the abovementioned human activity. As it is written in Britannica’s article, this could result in altering Earth’s climates and thereby producing new patterns and extremes of drought and rainfall and possibly disrupting food production in certain regions. [3] Effects of climate change may be devastating. They can include rising temperature, lengthened frost-free season (and growing season), changes in precipitation patterns. We can also expect more droughts and heatwaves. Hurricanes will become stronger and more intense, sea level will rise 1-8 feet by 2100. The Arctic is likely to become ice-free [4]. Therefore, it is clear that the consequences of climate change are critical to our well-being and even survival.

But what can we do in order to tackle climate change? It is advantageous to take action in your communities! Want to know more? Join an online webinar “Identifying common issues of climate justice in Nordic-Baltic region” that will take place on 19th of January, 2022 at 15:00 EET. Duration of the webinar - 3 hours. You will have the opportunity to receive knowledge from experts regarding the topic of climate justice in the Northern European region. Together we will review the situation regarding climate change in our region. We will share experiences related to climate justice and learn what each of us can do in order to change the current situation. Furthermore, we will dive deeper into the future activities of the project "Youth for Climate justice!".

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1] Kas yra klimato kaita? 2020.
[2] Climate change, 2021.
[3] Greenhouse effect.
[4] The Effects of Climate Change.

Climate justice activism

Sandra Matoškaitė

Activism is the use of direct and noticeable action to achieve a result, usually a political or social one [1]. According to Hans Peter Schmitz, “Non-state actors (NSAs) play an increasingly important role in the global promotion and local implementation of human rights standards.“[2] For instance, NGOs are mobilizing activists all over the world in order to achieve climate justice.

Based on the information provided by Amnesty International “Millions of people are already suffering from the catastrophic effects of extreme disasters exacerbated by climate change – from prolonged drought in sub-Saharan Africa to devastating tropical storms sweeping across Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific. In 2021, scorching temperatures caused deadly heatwaves in Canada and Pakistan and set off wildfires in Greece and Siberia. There was severe flooding in Germany and China, while in Madagascar, a particularly prolonged and intense drought has driven 1 million people to the brink of what is being described as the world’s first “climate change-induced famine”.“[3] Thus, climate activism is of crucial importance. A climate activist is a person who actively campaigns for climate change to be recognized as an issue.

It is explained that “activism including climate strikes have become a common occurrence around the world, it is important to consider the growth in climate change-focused activism and participation in social movements as a specific type of civic engagement.” [4] For instance, tens of thousands of protesters marched through Glasgow over the UN Climate change conference (COP26) weekend this year. There were slogans such as “COP26 Act Now!”, “We Need Action Not Promises”, people demanded for systematic changes. Activists from all over the world sent messages to the climate negotiators. It is argued that actions should be made in order to tackle the climate crisis.

Want to know more? Join an online webinar “Identifying common issues of climate justice in Nordic-Baltic region” that will take place on 19th of January, 2022 at 15:00 EET. Duration of the webinar - 3 hours. You will have the opportunity to receive knowledge from experts regarding the topic of climate justice in the Northern European region. Together we will review the situation regarding climate change in our region. We will share experiences related to climate justice and learn what each of us can do in order to change the current situation. Furthermore, we will dive deeper into the future activities of the project "Youth for Climate justice!".

This article is a part of the project “Youth for Climate change!” which is implemented by Global Citizens‘ Academy (Lithuania) together with “Stebėk teises” (Lithuania), Peace Action (Estonia), Crossing Borders (Denmark). This publication has been produced with financial support from the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the coordinators of this project and does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Nordic Council of Ministers.

References:

[1] Meaning of activism, Cambridge dictionary.
[2] Non-State Actors in Human Rights Promotion, Hans Peter Schmitz, The SAGE Handbook of Human Rights, 2014.
[3] Climate change, 2021.
[4] Climate activism and its effects, 2020.