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Wall Street Sees Rights of Nature Activists Challenge Fossil Fuel Industry

At New York’s “Climate Week,” an international people’s tribunal highlighted the plight of ecosystems and communities affected by fossil fuel projects. Representatives shared global stories of displacement, health deterioration, economic ruin, and loss of cultural heritage.
Environmental activists hold banners and chant slogans as they protest against the East African Crude Oil Pipeline Project on Aug. 26 in Kampala, Ugandan. Credit: Badru Katumba/AFP via Getty Images

Amid New York’s “Climate Week,” an international people’s tribunal spotlighted the ecosystems and communities impacted by fossil fuel projects.

Representatives from global communities, scientists, and advocates shared stories of displacement, health degradation, economic ruin, and lost histories to the International Tribunal on the Rights of Nature on Sunday.

In India, coal mines threaten endangered elephants sacred to Adivasi Indigenous people. In Louisiana, petrochemical facilities disrupt sacred grave sites. In East Africa, an oil pipeline displaces communities and wildlife. In Peru, decades-old crude production and over 1,000 oil spills lead to new refinery installations and expanded operations.

The tribunal, in its sixth session since 2014, probes alleged violations of the 2010 Universal Declaration on the Rights of Mother Earth, which recognizes nature as a living being with inherent rights.

“Just as human beings have human rights, all other beings also have rights specific to their species,” the nonbinding declaration states. It was written during a 2010 people’s conference in Bolivia following a disappointing UN climate summit in Copenhagen.

The tribunal is part of the growing “rights of nature” movement, which has led to laws recognizing nature’s rights in over a dozen countries, including Ecuador, Panama, Spain, New Zealand, Brazil, Colombia, and Uganda. However, enforcement remains limited.

The Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature created the tribunal to demonstrate potential legal systems recognizing nature’s rights. Past hearings have addressed the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, lithium mining in Chile, and the impact of free trade agreements on the environment. Despite nonbinding rulings, the tribunal’s website claims its work pressures governments by drawing international attention.

Yolanda Esguerra, a Filipino activist who testified about oil spills affecting coral reefs, said the tribunal strengthens her resolve to push for rights of nature legislation. “It gives you a sense that you’re not alone,” she said.

The Philippines, like many countries represented at the hearing, is a dangerous place for environmental defenders. Filipinos resisting ecologically harmful projects face abduction, lawsuits, and being labeled terrorists.

Sunday’s hearing also addressed “false solutions” to climate change, such as geoengineering and carbon markets. Paganga Pungowiyi, an Indigenous mother from Sivungaq in the Bering Strait, criticized an “Arctic Ice Project” for not adequately consulting local Indigenous communities.

The hearing also highlighted new oil and gas projects in Africa. Biologist Daniel Ribeiro from Mozambique reported gas extraction affecting endangered marine species and displacing local communities reliant on marine life and farming. Increased industry boat traffic causes more ship-strike deaths of species like humpback whales.

Mozambique is among many countries expanding fossil fuel production despite the rise of low-carbon technologies. Governments from the U.S. to India are increasing oil and gas production to meet growing demand.

“India is rapidly expanding renewable energy, but that’s obscuring the growth of coal,” said Maduresh Kumar, an Indian climate justice activist. India’s state-run coal company plans 21 new mines or expansions, affecting the biodiverse Hasdeo Arand Forest, home to 15,000 Adivasi Indigenous people and endangered species.

Frustration with existing laws and their lack of enforcement was a common theme. Communities like those along Louisiana’s Cancer Alley experience severe pollution and land degradation impacts.

“Our air smells like rotten eggs, we’re losing a football field of wetlands every hour, and our groundwater levels are receding at an alarming rate,” said Sharon Levine, director of RISE St. James.

The hearing included success stories, such as the grassroots campaign that pressured the U.S. government to halt the Keystone XL pipeline project. “We’ve stood up for over 500 years to the face of extinction, and we’re not going away,” said Julie Horinek of the Ponca Nation of Oklahoma.

Sunday’s hearing was the first of a two-part series on the global transition away from fossil fuels. The second hearing, “The Post Extractivism Non-Mining Era,” will take place in Toronto in March 2025.

The tribunal was led by President Judge Patricia Gualinga, a Kichwa leader from Ecuador, with judges from the U.S., Canada, the Ponca of Oklahoma, and the Navajo Nation/huŋka Bdewakaƞtoƞwaƞ Dakota.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

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COP29 Ends Amidst Criticism Over Loopholes and Disunity


The United Nations’ 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) concluded with widespread criticism over perceived loopholes and a lack of unity among participating nations. Environmental experts and activists expressed concerns that the agreements reached may be insufficient to address the escalating climate crisis.



Despite initial optimism, the conference, held in Bonn, Germany, was marked by intense debates and disagreements. Key issues included carbon emission reduction targets and financial commitments to developing countries. Many attendees felt these discussions fell short of meaningful progress. Learn more about the UN’s climate change efforts here.



A significant point of contention was the establishment of clear guidelines for monitoring and reporting emissions. Critics argue that the absence of stringent measures allows countries to exploit loopholes, undermining global efforts to curb climate change. The lack of consensus on this issue highlights the challenges in achieving cohesive international action.



Some developing nations voiced frustration over inadequate financial support from wealthier countries, which they argue is essential for implementing sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. This financial gap remains a major obstacle, fueling discontent and hampering collaborative efforts. Explore the Green Climate Fund’s role in supporting climate action.



Meanwhile, environmental groups emphasized the need for immediate and robust action, warning that delays could have catastrophic implications. They called for greater transparency and accountability in future agreements, urging nations to prioritize the planet’s health over economic interests.



As COP29 ends, the international community faces the challenge of bridging divides and enhancing cooperation to effectively combat climate change. Stakeholders are now looking ahead to future conferences, hoping for more decisive action and unity.

November 22, 2024

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024