Court approves Shell’s appeal to dodge emissions cuts: Friends of the Earth to continue fight against Big Polluters

In a blow to climate justice, the Court of Appeal of the Hague has approved Shell’s appeal of the 2021 climate lawsuit ruling by Milieudefensie / Friends of the Earth Netherlands.

“We are shocked by today’s judgment. It is a setback for us, for the climate movement and for millions of people around the world who worry about their future. But if there’s one thing to know about us, it’s that we don’t give up. This setback will only help us grow stronger. Large polluters are powerful. But united, we as people have the power to change them.”

Donald Pols
Director of Milieudefensie /Friends of the Earth Netherlands

“This ruling is a blow to communities all over the world who are bearing the brunt of climate inaction and greenwashing by corporations. Yet the ruling also gives hope – it confirms that corporations must respect human rights and that they bear responsibility for reducing emissions. No matter what, people are rising up and the era of corporate impunity is coming to an end. We urgently need an end to fossil fuels, no loopholes from carbon markets and false solutions and for big polluters to pay up.”

Kirtana Chandrasekaran
Friends of the Earth International

The judge deemed Shell responsible for reducing its CO₂ emissions, but no legal obligation was imposed. Yet the ruling confirmed that companies like Shell must abide by Human Rights, including protection from climate change. This ruling comes just as the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) kicks off and follows the undemocratic push at COP for carbon markets. It is clear to peoples and climate justice movements that corporate impunity and influence is a major threat to climate action. In response, this ruling will only fuel climate groups’ determination as they continue to challenge big polluters, take governments to court and demand climate justice.

Although a setback, the historic victory of 2021 and its impacts on the climate movement affirms that collective action is a way forward, challenging big polluters. Friends of the Earth International’s determination will continue to be a testament to the power of people standing together for climate justice.

Read more here:
Milieudefensie press release: Setback in Shell climate lawsuit: we won’t stop until all large polluters deliver on green promises
Official ruling 
Article: All you need to know about the upcoming judgment in Shell’s appeal of our climate lawsuit
Article: This is how our legal victory against Shell has helped the climate movement