The report by the Grantham Research Institute at the London School of Economics highlights the increasing trend of climate-related lawsuits against companies. Notably, since the 2015 Paris Agreement, 230 such lawsuits have been filed, with a significant uptick in cases since 2020. Traditionally focused on the fossil fuel sector, these lawsuits are now extending to various industries, including airlines, food and beverage, e-commerce, and financial services.
Key points from the report include:
The 2021 ruling against Shell in the Netherlands, mandating a 45% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, serves as a landmark case in climate litigation.
Accusations of "climate-washing" have led to bans on misleading advertisements by several airlines.
The principle of the "polluter pays" and efforts to halt financing for new fossil fuel projects are driving factors in these lawsuits.
Despite a lower overall percentage, lawsuits against corporations made up a quarter of the 233 climate-related lawsuits filed in 2023.
Notable cases include California's lawsuit against major oil companies and new lawsuits in countries like Portugal and Panama.
International courts are increasingly involved, with significant rulings expected to influence domestic policies.
Future litigation may focus on "post-disaster" cases and the concept of "ecocide," addressing environmental crimes and their impact on climate change.
These developments indicate a growing legal movement aimed at holding companies accountable for their environmental impact and pushing for more robust climate policies worldwide. Which I find is a superb step!
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14 w
If they fail to make the correct choice, they should face significant penalties that will deplete their resources.
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28 w
This legal actions are so vital in the roadmap to put all polluters on task to do the right thing. This is a step in the right trajectory.
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28 w
It's not just oil giants anymore. Now airlines, banks—pretty much everyone—is getting called out.
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28 w
In full support, let the polluters be held accountable and pay
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28 w
Wow..This reflects the growing momentum in addressing climate change through legal avenues.💚💚
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28 w
Nice one... seeing people fight for our planet is quite encouraging..we all should make effort and fight for what is right.
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28 w
This is surely the way to go.with such kind of efforts we will surely make significant steps ahead.
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28 w
Lawsuits is great way to echo the voice of the people
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28 w
The law must take its course on those who remain adamant to ceasing pollution. They must be held to account!
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28 w
Success in such litigations sends a signals increased accountability on climate action across the globe
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28 w
@rukia_ahmed_abdi Indeed this is what we want people to be accountable for their damage.
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28 w
@rukia_ahmed_abdi We call upon the courts to be pronounced and fast in their ruling.
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28 w
If they can't make the right decision, let them pay hefty charges that will drain them.
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28 w
@zelda_ninga_442 I agree, we need them to take responsibility for their actions.
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28 w
very impressive!! This development signals a shifting landscape where accountability and responsibility are being more rigorously scrutinized across various sectors.
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28 w
This increased litigation is a superb development that can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future. Kudos!👏👏
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28 w
@gorffly_mokua I agree on this.
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28 w
@gorffly_mokua Absolutely true, happy to see all polluters put in question.