Carney government asks court to strike down climate litigation
The Canadian government has filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought by youth and environmental groups challenging its climate policy. Officials argue that the court lacks the authority to dictate climate policy and that the current legislation does not mandate specific plan updates.
Why it matters
This case tests the limits of judicial oversight regarding government climate accountability and the interpretation of environmental legislation.
The government also says it's not the court's role to make or direct climate policy, and has filed a motion asking the court to strike the case before it goes to full hearings.
In June, three young people and two environmental groups launched a lawsuit asking the Federal Court to order Ottawa to amend its climate plan.
Youth, advocacy groups sue Carney government over climate rollbacks
Since the plan was first launched in 2022, the Liberal government has eliminated key measures needed for Canada to achieve the 2030 target.
The lawsuit alleges that not updating the climate plan violates Canada's climate accountability act, formally known as the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act .
In its first major response on Aug. 14, the government pointed out to the court that the act states that "the Minister may amend an emissions target … or an emissions reduction plan."
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