Climate Lawsuits Surge: Companies Face Record Legal Challenges Post-Paris Agreement

June 28, 2024
Climate Lawsuits Surge: Companies Face Record Legal Challenges Post-Paris Agreement
  • The number of climate-related lawsuits against companies globally has sharply risen since the 2015 Paris Agreement, with over 230 cases filed.

  • Two-thirds of these cases were initiated after 2020, indicating a significant increase in litigation.

  • A notable rise in 'climate-washing' litigation has emerged, targeting companies that misrepresent their environmental progress.

  • Recent cases focus on holding companies accountable for high emissions and challenging financial flows hindering climate goals.

  • A landmark ruling in the Netherlands against Shell to reduce emissions has set a precedent for future cases.

  • Accusations of 'climate-washing' and the 'polluter pays' principle are driving many recent lawsuits.

  • International courts are increasingly involved, with key rulings against Switzerland and upcoming opinions on climate duties.

  • Post-disaster cases and the concept of 'ecocide' are expected to lead to more lawsuits.

  • The report predicts a rise in climate-related legal actions worldwide, with successful outcomes pushing for greater corporate and government accountability.

Summary based on 11 sources


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