A Dutch appeals court has reversed a groundbreaking decision that ordered Shell to cut carbon emissions by 45% by 2030 compared to 2019 levels.
The initial 2021 ruling was hailed as a climate victory by activists, who argued it set a precedent for corporate accountability in reducing environmental harm. However, the appeals court argued there is not enough scientific consensus on a specific emissions reduction target for a single company like Shell, deeming it unenforceable, NPR reported.
Friends of the Earth, the group behind the case, expressed disappointment, emphasizing that although this verdict is a setback, it continues to spark crucial conversations about corporate roles in combating climate change. Shell’s CEO, Wael Sawan, welcomed the court’s decision, reaffirming that the company’s broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 remains unchanged.
This ruling comes as global climate talks unfold at the U.N. climate conference in Azerbaijan, where nations are exploring ways to finance emission reductions and adapt to worsening climate impacts. Shell argued that imposing a percentage cut on the company alone would be ineffective, as it could prompt other companies to simply take over its fuel market share, diminishing any climate benefit.
Climate activists see this ruling as a discouraging turn in a series of courtroom battles aimed at pressuring corporations to address climate risks. In recent years, global courts have increasingly ruled in favor of activist claims, including the 2019 Dutch Supreme Court order mandating government action on emissions.
The court noted that Shell has made significant steps to reduce direct emissions and those from its purchased energy. However, it stopped short of imposing reductions on emissions linked to customers’ fuel use, as it deemed that an unrealistic obligation.
This decision has raised concerns among activists about whether judicial routes can effectively hold corporations accountable for climate impacts. Friends of the Earth has vowed to continue its campaign, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that polluters play an active role in the global climate fight.
Written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.