Ten Australians – including a firefighter, First Nations leaders and young people – are bringing their concerns about the nation’s coal and gas exports to the United Nations.

On Tuesday, the group lodged a complaint with the UN Human Rights Committee, claiming the Australian government is failing to protect them from climate harms.

They argue Australia’s continued exports are inconsistent with limiting global warming to 1.5°C, as set out in the Paris Agreement.

This case spotlights Australia’s role as a major fossil fuel exporter. And it’s the first case of its kind to go to the UN since the world’s highest court – the International Court of Justice – ruled countries have a legal obligation to protect the climate and prevent harm to the climate.

Last month, Australia supported a UN resolution backing the Court’s ruling.

So what is this case about? And why does it matter?

Relying on fossil fuels

Australia is the world’s second largest fossil fuel exporter, behind Russia. Our total fossil fuel exports generate around 3.5% of global carbon emissions annually.

Australia’s state and federal governments are continuing to approve and subsidise new coal and gas projects, most of which are for export. However, every approval increases global carbon emissions.

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, every additional tonne of carbon emitted adds to global warming. For example, research shows Woodside’s........

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