Environmental lawsuits are on the rise, with ordinary people around the world taking on oil and gas companies. From an Iraqi man suing BP over his son’s death to young activists filing a climate lawsuit in the US, these cases are setting important precedents and highlighting the devastating impact of oil and gas production on human health and the environment. One study found that children born to mothers living near oil and gas developments are up to 70% more likely to be born with congenital heart defects, and researchers have also found an increased risk of cancer among workers and residents living near oil facilities.