Среда

Since 2005 we have taken on a number of strategic cases addressing air and noise pollution in Russia and Georgia. Working with our partners, we have litigated cases on behalf of those who have experienced adverse health impacts as a result of the authorities’ failure to regulate the environmental impacts of industry sites which are in close proximity to populated areas.

More recently, we have begun to explore the emerging field of climate litigation, concerning state obligations to reduce carbon emissions. As the effects of climate change become ever more apparent, we are looking to expand our work in this field.

Our Impact

Tbilisi residents affected by pollution win landmark case

EHRAC jointly litigated Jugheli and others v. Georgia, a landmark case before the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) which helped residents of Tbilisi, Georgia affected by power plant pollution secure justice. The Court found a lack of necessary environmental regulations to avoid or reduce the air plant’s pollution and its impact on the applicants’ health and well-being. Combined with the government’s “passive attitude” to this pollution, the ECtHR found the applicants’ rights had been breached. Following the ECtHR judgment, Georgia took a number of steps to improve environmental protections, including by changing the law.