Climate Change Justice Project

The Climate Change Justice Project (the Project) was launched following the PILCH AGM on Thursday 4 December 2008.

The primary aim of the Project is to identify areas of need and potential law reform which arise as a consequence of the inevitable transition to a less emissions intensive economy and to build capacity within PILCH to respond to these needs.  In particular, it appears likely that the financial and social cost of the transition will impact disproportionately on people in the lower socio-economic demographic.

The Project will be looking at ways in which PILCH can utilize its existing networks and expertise to assist people to understand and negotiate their way through the changes and, where appropriate, to advocate for change and greater transparency, for example in relation to low cost housing, utility charges and the rise of carbon-offset schemes.

One of the first objectives of the Project is to enhance the capacity of PILCH to make referrals in environmental and climate change matters.  This will be achieved to a large extent by the establishment of a separate panel of barristers with experience and/or interest in environmental law.  PILCH is currently collaborating with members of the Bar to finalise the guidelines which will inform the way in which referrals to the Panel are made.

PILCH is also in discussions with the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) and other interested parties to pursue the establishment of a database of environmental/climate change experts who would be willing to assist in litigation.

As the Project gets underway it is expected that it will generate work in the areas of law reform, particularly in relation to compensation for low income earners under the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme, and advocacy.

If you are interested in assisting PILCH litigate matters for the Climate Change Justice Project please click here.