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🗞️ Driving the news: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) begins hearings on December 2 to determine countries' legal obligations in addressing climate change
• Over 100 nations and organizations will present arguments, with discussions focused on whether international laws impose financial liabilities for climate impacts
• Requested by Vanuatu and supported by the UN General Assembly, the hearings aim to address legal accountability for present and future generations

🔭 The context: The ICJ is considering obligations under frameworks like the Paris Agreement and precedents from other international courts
• While the Paris Agreement’s binding nature is debated, other treaties like UNCLOS have been interpreted to include climate obligations
• The hearings build on efforts by nations vulnerable to climate impacts, such as Vanuatu, to assert international responsibility

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: If the ICJ recognizes climate change as a human right or establishes binding obligations, it could drive global climate policies and litigation
• This could increase accountability for emissions and offer pathways for nations to seek redress for climate-related damages
• The outcome will influence future treaties and the interpretation of existing international laws

⏭️ What's next: The ICJ will deliberate over two weeks, with its findings likely to influence legislative action and future litigation globally
• Countries like the U.S. may face renewed challenges regarding their commitments under the Paris Agreement, especially with shifting political leadership
• The hearings could pave the way for further integration of climate accountability into international law

💬 One quote: “We must switch gears… The world can no longer wait,” — Erin Silsbe, Canadian delegation head

📈 One stat: The world generates 350 million metric tons of plastic waste annually, much of which exacerbates climate-related issues

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