The last few years have seen global temperatures rise and countless catastrophic weather events such as floods, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, drought, and earthquakes. While climate activists and environmentalists have lobbied for change since the release of Al Gore’s 2006 documentary An Inconvenient Truth, it is only recently that an attorney tackled the climate issue with a new approach—by applying the law to compel the government to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
Roger Cox, an attorney from the Netherlands, and author of the book: Revolution Justified is applying the term “duty of care” to seek justice in the courts. As a fitting title for the name of this film, duty of care refers to the obligation of the government and others to prevent climate change disasters. This film postulates that no one—governments, companies, corporate executives, or board members—has a right to endanger its citizens. Citizens have a right to a safe planet and we should hold those who harm the planet responsible.
Filmmaker Nic Balthazar, an environmental activist, follows Roger Cox as he seeks “Lady Justice”; to address climate change. After publishing his book, Roger Cox meets American Julia Olsen, chief legal counsel for Our Children’s Trust, and others who are interested in his idea of using the law to protect people against the climate crisis; for, as he says, the media and government may do as they wish.
First, Roger Cox filed a petition in a Dutch court that “individuals have a right to a safe climate system” and that the “government must reduce emissions as it is knowingly endangering its people”. After presenting their evidence, Cox and his team were successful and won their case. Inspired by this victory, attorneys and activists pursued cases in Belgium where 58,000 complainants of all ages joined the petition. The Belgium case takes six years to resolve.
Next, Roger Cox and his team sued Royal Dutch Shell (RDS). According to the facts presented in the film, twenty-five companies across the globe handle 50% of greenhouse gas emissions. Like the tobacco companies’ actions of the past, the oil companies have vast resources and top legal personnel to stave off litigation and hide the damages they cause. Roger Cox is more than aware that his team must present facts and evidence to substantiate their case; they sue for a reduction in absolute emissions, not just a commitment toward renewable energy. RDS loses and must reduce its emissions by 45% by 2030.
After following Roger Cox for two years, director Nic Balthazar reveals the ripple effect of Roger Cox and his team’s work for climate justice. As Roger Cox believes, “Never underestimate that a small group of committed citizens can effect change—but they need an idea”. Roger Cox’s photo appears on the cover of Time Magazine as one hundred of the most influential men of the year.
Al Gore introduces Roger Cox to speak about his legal efforts at a conference. As the film concludes, Roger Cox sees raising the stakes higher by suing the CEOs and board members; and by 2022, two thousand cases of litigation are in the courts. Highly recommended film.
What kind of film series would Duty of Care fit in?
Duty of Care is a documentary focusing on environmental and political issues.
What academic subjects would this film be suitable for?
At the high school or college level, instructors in environmental science, political science, and law can show Duty of Care to show ways the legal system can achieve change.
What kind of film collection would this title be suitable for?
Duty of Care is appropriate for high school and college library collections in law, justice, climate, and sustainability. Public libraries may find it a useful source for community groups.