A historic signal from The Hague: in a landmark opinion, the International Court of Justice (ICJ ) has ruled that inadequate climate protection is contrary to international law. According to the ICJ, states are obliged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and actively combat climate change. The right to a clean environment has thus been confirmed as a fundamental human right. For the TransformIT Europe platform and its partners, this ruling is a wake-up call – but also a confirmation.

By Jochen Siegle and Jan Nintemann
Photo: Markus Spiske, Unsplash

Global responsibility: climate policy becomes a legal obligation

In the more than 130-page opinion, the UN’s highest court makes it clear that states’ climate protection obligations do not only arise from international agreements such as the Paris Agreement. Rather, the obligation to limit emissions also arises from customary international law and international human rights treaties. States that violate these obligations will in the future be acting in violation of international law. Countries particularly affected by climate change could even sue for compensation.

Green business as the key to implementation

For TransformIT Europe and its partners, this verdict is a wake-up call – but also a confirmation: Digitalization and climate protection are inextricably linked. Change can only succeed through innovative, sustainable technologies and green business models. Companies, politicians and civil society must cooperate more closely than ever to reduce emissions, close loops and scale up digital solutions for climate protection.

International cooperation for sustainable business models

The ICJ not only strengthens the rights of particularly affected states – it also strengthens future-oriented innovations. After all, sustainable development requires a clear political framework, legal orientation and economic visions. This is precisely where TransformIT Europe comes in: As a conference, expo and networking platform, it brings together players from the GreenTech, ClimateTech and digital economy to make solutions visible and anchor them systemically.

Conclusion: Now is the time to act – also legally

The new opinion of the International Court of Justice marks a turning point: climate protection is no longer just a moral or political duty – it is a must under international law. Pan-European platforms such as TransformIT Europe are helping to fulfill this duty with concrete solutions. So that we not only preserve our livelihoods – but also actively shape the future of our children and grandchildren.