ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the implications for children of the present failures on the part of governments and businesses to systematically address the causes and consequences of global warming. It begins by briefly outlining the relationship between climate change and criminology. The chapter then introduces the notions of ecocide and intergenerational equity as conceptual lenses by which we can evaluate and critique present-day affairs pertaining to climate change. It focuses on ecocide and intergenerational equity as key concepts denoting culpability and responsibility. The chapter discusses narrow sectoral interests embedded in present socio-economic arrangements that are driving global warming. It attempts to set out certain legal principles and agendas that situate the problem of climate change in a criminological and eco-rights context. Addressing intergenerational equity in practice will require much more consideration of specific legal issues including and especially the crime of ecocide and how best to deal with environmental destruction and degradation.
