Youth-led climate change lawsuits are increasing across the country

"Youth often feel obligated to do this because of the pure fact that we are young and we need this protection," said Grace Gibson-Snyder, an 18-year-old plaintiff.

Ava Lazar made her first climate documentary at age 11.

"When I was little, my older sister was very concerned about climate change, and I didn't really know what it was,” said Lazar. “But she was so worried and so afraid and had so much anxiety that transferred over to me and I started worrying about it."

Six years after making that film, Lazar is now part of a group suing the state of Virginia for its alleged part in causing the nation's climate crisis. The case is just one in a series of lawsuits nationwide where youth are going to the courts to fight climate change.

"A lot of us are under 18. I'm only 17 years old. I don't really have a voice except to through the court," said Ava. "Just the realization that, oh, it's possible for me to sue the Commonwealth of Virginia. And not only that, but it's happening in other states too was really reassuring."