THE U.S. APPROACH TO CLIMATE JUSTICE: LESSONS FOR GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL LAW

Abstract

Climate justice represents the intersection of environmental protection, human rights, and social equity. It acknowledges that those least responsible for climate change often suffer its most severe impacts. In recent decades, the United States has become a key site for developing the concept of climate justice, driven by activism, litigation, and evolving policy frameworks. This article examines the U.S. approach to climate justice, analyzing its domestic origins, legal foundations, and global implications. By studying how federal, state, and community-based initiatives address inequality and environmental harm, the article identifies lessons for international environmental law. It argues that the American experience demonstrates the importance of inclusive governance, public participation, and integration of social justice into environmental policymaking. Ultimately, the pursuit of climate justice in the United States provides valuable insights for constructing a fairer and more effective global environmental regime.