**Vanuatu’s Climate Envoy Slams Australia and World’s Largest Greenhouse Gas Emitters at ICJ**

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has been called upon to take action against the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, including Australia. The call comes from Vanuatu, a Pacific Island nation that is deeply affected by climate change.

The Campaign Behind the Call

Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change (PISCFC) is a group of students from Pacific Island nations who have been fighting for action on climate change. Their campaign has gained international attention and support, with many organizations and individuals calling for greater action to address the root causes of climate change.

“We know that a legal opinion is not legally binding but we do know a legal opinion from the International Court of Justice has a very strong moral weighting,” said Coral Pasisi, director of climate change at the Pacific Community’s (SPC) secretariat. “We hope that this will serve as a catalyst for international law’s being developed to correct injustices.”

The ICJ Proceedings

The ICJ proceedings were initiated by Vanuatu’s Climate Envoy, who is also a member of PISCFC. The envoy argued that the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, including Australia, are responsible for the majority of the planet’s carbon emissions.

“Australia and other major fossil fuel producers have been responsible for the biggest share of global warming,” said Vanuatu’s Climate Envoy. “Australia has a special responsibility to take action on this issue.”

Response from Major Fossil Fuel Producers

The response from major fossil fuel producers was lukewarm, with some arguing that climate change is not a pressing enough issue to warrant immediate action.

“We are committed to reducing our carbon emissions, but we need to do it in a way that balances economic growth and energy security,” said an Australian government spokesperson.

Call for Action

The ICJ proceedings have highlighted the need for greater action on climate change. The court’s decision will be seen as a major victory for those fighting against climate change, but also a reminder of the urgent need for action.

“We urge all countries to take immediate and drastic cuts in their carbon emissions,” said Vanuatu’s Climate Envoy. “The world needs urgent action to address this crisis.”

Conclusion

The ICJ proceedings have highlighted the need for greater action on climate change. The court’s decision will be seen as a major victory for those fighting against climate change, but also a reminder of the urgent need for action. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, it is clear that the ICJ proceedings are an important step towards holding those responsible accountable.

“Injustice can only be addressed by the international community,” said Coral Pasisi. “We hope that this will serve as a catalyst for greater action and accountability.”