New Delhi, July 23 -- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) declared on Wednesday (July 23) that the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is a fundamental human right, in a landmark advisory opinion on climate change. The decision is being seen as a potential turning point in international environmental law.

"The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is therefore inherent in the enjoyment of other human rights," said ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa, delivering the court's conclusion.

The case was led by Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation severely threatened by rising sea levels, and was backed by over 130 countries. Vanuatu's Attorney General Arnold Kiel Loughman reminded the court during earlier hear...