Climate change litigation actions for future generations

Major impacts of climate change will occur in the future and will inevitably affect future generations of humans and life on the planet. This article reviews the theory of intergenerational equity and considers the reasons why the present generation should take into account the needs of future generations when developing policy and taking action to protect the environment. The elements of this theory are implicit in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change because of the objectives of this convention however this theory will be examined to the extent that it could enable future generations to take action to ensure the climate is protected. The issue of standing is also addressed to consider possible options to enable the representation of future generations in future environmental international and national court actions.