The United Nations’ top court in a landmark advisory opinion says countries could be in violation of international law if they fail to take measures to protect the planet from climate change, and nations harmed by its effects could be entitled to reparations.

It's been hailed as a "planetary scale" win for climate advocates pushing for stronger action against carbon pollution.The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared nations have an obligation under international law to prevent climate change — and that they may be liable to pay compensation if they fail to do so.

Severe weather and natural disasters, are on the rise. This week, the top United Nations court ruled that countries are obligated to limit climate change under international law, in response. Cheryl Johnson with People for Community Recovery joins WGN's Micah Materre to discuss this historic ruling and what it could mean for environmental justice.