Stop the UK government failing to protect us from climate breakdown 

Most of us fear what the climate crisis means for our future, but for many people in the UK, its effects are already devastating. 

Friends of the Earth has spent decades fighting to reduce fossil fuel dependence and protect people and planet. But the crisis has escalated and more and more people are now being harmed. For too long, governments have delayed the crucial action we need, while approving environmentally destructive projects.

Kevin Jordan lost his home in Hemsby due to coastal erosion accelerated by climate breakdown.

We can’t let this continue. That's why we're taking it to the next level and are taking the government to court again – and we need your help. 

You may remember us joining forces with Kevin Jordan and Doug Paulley – two people directly affected by climate breakdown – back in 2024 to challenge the government's inadequate plan to prepare the UK for a changing climate. The High Court agreed the government had failed in its legal obligations regarding equality, but it still ruled that its National Adaptation Plan was lawful. 

However, we know this result isn't good enough. Lives and livelihoods are at stake. That's why we're taking this case to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) - the first climate adaptation challenge of its kind - to challenge these failures head-on and push for accountability and lasting change. 

This groundbreaking case will directly challenge the government's climate adaptation plan and we’re determined to succeed. Our record of wins shows we have the expertise and passion to win in court and change the future. We just need your help. 

We’ll argue that the plan violates universally established human rights: 

• Its objectives are too vague to drive real action.
• The protections from current climate impacts it provides are ineffective.
• There was no meaningful consultation with communities most at risk.

But we can only see this case through with your support. Your donation can help us continue our legal action at the ECtHR. If the court allows our case to be heard, we’ll argue the government must be forced to prepare properly for the impacts of climate breakdown. 

Why this matters now 

Extreme weather is becoming more frequent and more severe. Floods, rising seas, droughts, heatwaves and wildfires have broken records. Scientists have shown this extreme weather is caused by escalating climate breakdown. Few of us will escape the consequences, if the government fails to make adequate plans. We’ll feel the fall-out on every level, from damaged homes, rising food prices to strained public services and worsening impacts – waiting will only cost more. And those most at risk – older people, disabled people, pregnant women, children and those living in vulnerable locations – will be hit hardest. Doug and Kevin are already on the front line.  

Kevin Jordan (left) and Doug Paulley (right)

Kevin's story 

Kevin Jordan bought his dream home in Hemsby, Norfolk, intending to enjoy his retirement by the coast. However, after just 14 years he was forced into emergency accommodation when coastal erosion, accelerated by climate breakdown, left his house on the brink of falling into the sea. And, despite being told it would be secure for 100 years, it had to be demolished – he lost his home, community and peace of mind.  

Doug's story 

Record-breaking heatwaves made Doug Paulley’s care home unliveable for him. Due to his health, Doug wasn’t just uncomfortable, his life was at risk. He was forced to spend long periods isolated and buy an air-conditioning system to keep him safe, compromising his human rights and his quality of life.

Be part of history 

A win in this case could transform how our government and others respond to the climate emergency, which could be a real turning point both for the climate crisis and for human rights. 

The climate crisis isn't going away, eventually it will affect you and me, if it hasn't already. We must act now before it's too late. 

Please support Friends of the Earth, Doug and Kevin to demand better protection from climate catastrophe. Donate today and join us as we fight for a safer, greener, fairer world.

With passion and solidarity 

Niall

Senior Lawyer at Friends of the Earth