Victory! Shell Ordered To Dramatically Slash CO2 Emissions By 45%!

As of recently, a court in the Netherlands has ruled oil giant, Shell liable for causing dangerous climate change making it a first in history. This historical verdict is also seen as a catalyst of how the fossil fuel industry has to adapt in the future. 

The judge determined that Shell must reduce its CO2 emissions by 45 percent within ten years as a result of a legal action brought by Friends of the Earth Netherlands (Milieudefensie) and 17,000 co-plaintiffs alongside six other organizations.

“This is a monumental victory for our planet, for our children, and is a stop towards a livable future for everyone. The judge has left no room for doubt: Shell is causing dangerous climate change and must stop its destructive behavior now.” said Friends of the Earth Netherlands director, Donald Pols. 

Three main points were raised from the verdict: Royal Dutch Shell must reduce its emission by 45 percent net by the end of 2030, with the corporation being responsible for emissions from customers (scope 3) and suppliers. A great threat of human rights violation was seen, mainly violating ‘right to life’ and ‘undisturbed family life’. Moreover, Shell was ruled to comply with judgement immediately as its current climate policy was said to be fragile. 

“This is a turning point in history. This case is unique because it is the first time a judge has ordered a large polluting company to comply with the Paris Climate Agreement. This ruling may also have major consequences for other big polluters.” stated Friend of the Earth Netherlands lawyer, Roger Cox. 

The court's decision in The Hague will have far-reaching impacts around the world, including in the United States.

 “The day of reckoning is coming for U.S. fossil fuel companies. The Biden administration must heed this warning and do its part to end dependence on fossil fuels by ending all support for overseas fossil fuel projects and other fossil fuel subsidies.” said Friends of the Earth U.S senior international policy analyst Kate DeAngelis. 

“This is a landmark victory for climate justice. Our hope is that this verdict will trigger a wave of climate litigation against big polluters, to force them to stop extracting and burning fossil fuels. This result is a win for communities in the global South who face devastating climate impacts now.” added Friend of the Earth International representative Sara Shaw.