In recent days, disastrous climate events have been rampant influencing the York state prosecutors to consider pressing criminal charges against big oil for its role in fueling hurricanes and other climate disasters. The 50-page document, published by the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen and the progressive prosecutors network Fair and Just Prosecution on Thursday, comes as the US south-east struggles to recover from the deadly hurricanes Helene and Milton, both of which scientists have found were exacerbated by the climate crisis. It details the havoc wrought on New York by 2021’s Hurricane Ida and 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, and other deadly climate events such as extreme heatwaves across the US this past summer.
The officials have mentioned that these disasters are fueled by the climate crisis, which is primarily caused by the burning of fossil fuels. And a growing body of evidence shows that big oil knew about the climate dangers of its products but promoted them to the public anyway, the authors write.
It is however clear that the actions of big oil, major fossil fuel companies and their executives have endangered generations of Americans,” said González in a statement. “Big oil must be held accountable for their actions, and justice must be won for those who’ve suffered the devastating impacts of climate-related disasters.
•
•
7 w
The call to prosecute big oil for fuelling climate disasters feels long overdue. These companies, knowing the risks of fossil fuel consumption, chose profit over the planet. Holding them accountable could set a precedent for corporate responsibility and accelerate meaningful environmental change.
•
•
7 w
Indeed companies’ actions have significantly contributed to severe weather events, such as hurricanes Sandy and Ida, which have caused extensive damage and loss of life.
•
•
7 w
@peter_karanga The impact of companies, especially those in the fossil fuel industry, on severe weather events is undeniable. Hurricanes like Sandy and Ida are stark reminders of how climate change worsens natural disasters.
•
•
8 w
This is great...all polluters should pay for the kind of pollution they bring about so as to bring about change.
•
•
7 w
@jane_wangui If companies are made to face the consequences of their environmental impact, it could push them to adopt cleaner practices and reduce their harmful emissions. Responsibility drives progress.
•
•
8 w
All polluters should be held responsible for their actions and heavily penalized for bringing about pollution.
•
•
8 w
Such actions could significantly impact the fight against climate change and accountability for corporate behavior.
•
•
8 w
It's essential to address the root causes. Big oil's role cannot be ignored any longer!
•
•
8 w
Big oil conglomerates should face the music for their roles in fueling climate disasters.
•
•
8 w
Great move!! Prosecution can serve as a deterrent for future irresponsible actions and send a message that environmental damage will not go unpunished.
•
•
8 w
@walter_lungayi it's a great move, polluters must be held responsible
•
•
8 w
@walter_lungayi The law will take it's definitive course on the polluters