France’s Groundbreaking Legal Challenge: Is Climate Resilience Enough? Exploring the Nation’s Adaptation Plan

On April 7, 2025, a group of climate-impacted individuals, alongside prominent environmental NGOs like Greenpeace and Notre Affaire à Tous, submitted a formal notice to the French government. This move takes place within the ongoing “case of the century” (l’Affaire du Siècle). It follows a 2021 decision by the Administrative Court of Paris, which found that the French government fell short of its climate goals, particularly regarding greenhouse gas reductions.

The current action focuses on the effectiveness of France’s climate adaptation policies. Specifically, it addresses concerns with the third National Adaptation Plan to Climate Change (PNACC 3), issued on March 10, 2025. Unlike the initial claim, which primarily targeted the government’s inaction, this one seeks to improve and clarify the adaptation strategies to better protect the population against existing climate impacts.

The current formal notice is anchored in both national and European laws. It references the French Constitution and the Charter for the Environment, emphasizing the state’s responsibility to ensure a healthy living environment. European legislation, such as EU Regulation 2021/1119, and the notable ruling by the European Court of Human Rights in April 2024 also support the claim. That ruling highlighted states’ obligations to address climate change under the European Convention on Human Rights.

The PNACC 3 faces criticism on several fronts. The claimants argue it does not sufficiently assess climate risks, lacks clear adaptation priorities, and fails to implement binding policies or allocate necessary resources effectively. Additionally, they contend that it overlooks the needs of vulnerable groups, including those with chronic illnesses and marginalized communities.

If the government does not respond adequately within two months, the claimants might take legal action against PNACC 3. This potential litigation marks a shift in climate legal strategies from reactive claims based on harm to proactive measures demanding preventive actions.

Experts believe that if the claimants succeed, it could set a new legal standard, making climate adaptation a mandated duty rather than a voluntary choice. Such a ruling could compel the government to prioritize equity and accountability in its climate policies.

The stakes are high. As climate-related events become more frequent, such legal actions not only seek justice but can inspire broader societal changes. A recent survey indicated that 63% of the French population supports stronger government action on climate adaptation. This shows a growing public awareness and demand for responsibility in tackling climate challenges.

As the situation develops, it will be interesting to see how it influences climate law across Europe and beyond.



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