CLIMATE LITIGATION IN ENERGY IN BRAZIL: CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES FOR THE ENERGY TRANSITION

• Grant number: 24/23409-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Sonia Regina da Cal Seixas
• Grantee: Renata Pereira Nocera
• Host Institution: Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas Ambientais (NEPAM). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This research project investigates the impacts of climate litigation on Brazil's energy sector and its implications for the energy transition. Although the energy sector is one of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, it plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change through the adoption of low-carbon energy matrices. However, this transition faces technical, economic, political, and legal challenges, particularly in emerging countries like Brazil. In this context, climate litigation emerges as a strategic tool to pressure governments and companies to adopt more sustainable practices, promoting climate mitigation and adaptation, human rights protection, and climate justice. The research employs a qualitative, interdisciplinary, and comparative approach, including literature review, case law analysis, and international studies, to identify institutional gaps and challenges faced by the Brazilian judiciary. Based on these findings, it seeks to propose improvements and encourage the adoption of local best practices.The expected outcomes include strengthening climate governance, advancing a more inclusive and sustainable energy transition, and consolidating Climate Change Law as an expanding interdisciplinary legal field. The research aims to foster innovative solutions for reducing emissions and protecting human rights, contributing to addressing the climate crisis in an integrated and efficient manner. (AU)