Climate activist Mike Smith has won the right to sue seven companies - including Fonterra, Genesis and Z Energy - for their role in contributing to climate change.
Environmental law specialist Rob Enright says the companies argued managing carbon footprints for corporates, should be left to Parliament -- not the courts.
He says from one angle, there's a degree of judicial activism -- but on the other hand, Smith and his lawyers are relying on ancient causes of action related to property and torte law.
