Young people raise their voices to protect the future
On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, GreenFaith Japan participated in and observed the fourth oral argument session of the Youth Climate Lawsuit, held at the Nagoya District Court.
Over 130 people gathered for seats in the gallery, and the words of young people speaking out about the climate crisis from the perspectives of education and everyday life attracted a lot of attention. At the report session that followed, guests from overseas also took to the stage. It was a day that once again brought home the significance of the lawsuit, along with the expansion of international solidarity.
“The climate crisis threatening our children’s future”
In her statement, plaintiff Abe Fuyumi, an elementary school teacher in Aichi Prefecture, took the stage. She spoke about the reality that climate change is affecting the educational field itself, including the increasing number of days when playgrounds cannot be used due to the heatstroke index and the dangers of heat on the way to and from school. She
also mentioned that while an increasing number of developed countries are pledging to phase out coal-fired power generation by 2030, Japan has not yet achieved this goal, and strongly urged, “We must fulfill our responsibilities for the future, rather than pursue short-term convenience.”
“Feeling the climate crisis in your daily life”
Next to take the stage was plaintiff Asumi Imaoka, a university student from Nagasaki. She spoke of her personal experiences with climate change, such as the frequent heavy rain disasters in Kyushu and the increase in UV allergies among local cats. She
then stated, “This issue concerns not only the government or companies, but each and every one of us,” and called for a fair judgment from the court. The lawsuit calls on 10 electric power companies to reduce their existing coal-fired power plants.
“A forum for reporting that fosters dialogue and empathy”
A briefing session was held at a nearby hotel from 4 p.m., with approximately 150 people in attendance, including those who were unable to attend. Abe and Imaoka, along with their legal team, gave detailed explanations of the current situation and background of the trial, and participants asked many questions and provided their impressions. The session provided an opportunity to consider climate issues from the perspective of each individual’s life and position, and provided a real sense of the growing interest.
“Voices of encouragement from around the world”
Special guests on the day included former Hawaii Supreme Court Justice Michael Wilson, who ruled in favor of a climate lawsuit in Hawaii, and former United Nations University Professor Veselin Popovski. They attended the trial and also spoke at the briefing. Judge Wilson stated, “The climate lawsuits being brought by young people around the world are legitimate claims that should be won, especially in light of the rapid increase in natural disasters. We have already seen success in cases in Hawaii, South Korea, India, and elsewhere.” He
also delivered a powerful message of encouragement, saying, “Japan has one of the oldest and most beautiful traditions in the world of protecting nature and culture. I am sure this lawsuit will be guided in a positive direction.”
We at GreenFaith Japan believe that this lawsuit is an important step towards decarbonizing Japan. We will continue to
participate, support, and speak out in order to listen to the voices of future generations and protect the daily lives and lives threatened by climate change.