Young climate activists in Portugal are taking legal action to push the government to align its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets with the goals of the Paris Agreement. The activists, led by the Portuguese youth association Último Recurso, are joined by activist Cláudia Duarte Agostinho and three other young applicants from the groundbreaking case Duarte Agostinho and Others v. Portugal and 32 Other States.
Duarte Agostinho, one of the claimants in the previous case, emphasized the importance of holding the Portuguese government accountable for its weak climate targets. The European Court of Human Rights had directed them to take their case to national courts, leading to this new legal challenge.
Mariana Gomes, founder of Último Recurso, expressed satisfaction in joining forces with the determined group of activists. Together, they aim to urge Portugal to set strong climate targets and lead the way in combating the climate crisis.
Gerry Liston, a senior lawyer at Global Legal Action Network, commended the group for their perseverance in fighting for urgent climate action. The activists are embarking on a new chapter in their eight-year legal battle, showing unwavering dedication to a sustainable future.
The ECtHR’s rulings in previous climate cases highlighted the need for stronger climate action. While the court ruled in favor of the KlimaSeniorinnnen claimants, the Duarte Agostinho case was deemed inadmissible due to various reasons. Now, Duarte Agostinho and her fellow youth-applicants are teaming up with Último Recurso to set a legal precedent in Portugal for more ambitious climate targets.
Portugal has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, but research by Climate Analytics suggests that this target falls short. If other countries adopt similar targets, global temperatures could rise significantly by 2100.
Último Recurso hopes that legal proceedings will spark a national debate on appropriate climate targets and pave the way for more ethical and sustainable climate policies. A recent survey on climate anxiety among young people in Portugal revealed growing concerns, with projections indicating a rise in heatwaves in the country.
As a Portuguese NGO specializing in climate law and litigation, Último Recurso is dedicated to holding climate offenders accountable and advocating for policies that protect future generations. The organization believes in the power of legal action to reduce emissions, support vulnerable communities, and prevent environmental harm.
The article was written by Brendan Montague, editor of The Ecologist, and highlights the ongoing efforts of young activists in Portugal to drive meaningful change in climate policy through legal means.
