In the ICJ’s 500-page advisory opinion, the court determined that every country is legally obligated to act on climate change—and those that fail to do so should be held accountable. This means that everything from introducing fossil fuel-friendly policy to licensing new oil and gas projects— even failing to regulate companies that operate in our country—could be considered a breach of international agreement.

While the United States is not part of the ICJ’s jurisdiction, other countries will still be able to sue by taking their case to our federal courts. And as one of the world’s biggest polluters, it is undeniable that we will face legal challenges – and likely have to pay reparations—for our historic and current contributions to global warming.