Setback in Shell climate lawsuit: we won’t stop until all large polluters deliver on green promises

You are doing everything in your power to help stop climate change. It’s no more than fair to expect big companies to do the same. And yet, for decades, they have failed to act. Companies like Shell are even putting up a fight to continue business as usual. We are in this battle for the long haul, that much is clear. But we’re confident the victory will be ours in the end. Here’s why.

"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.

Our work has already made an impact

Back in 2021, we beat Shell in our landmark climate lawsuit. Today’s decision means that important parts of the 2021 judgment will be overturned. But it does not mean we’re back to square one. The judge said that:

• Shell has a responsibility to reduce its CO2 emissions in order to limit the effects of dangerous climate change. However, the court imposes no legal obligation on Shell to do so.
• To be protected from climate change is a fundamental human right. Companies like Shell have a responsibility to protect human rights.
• The exploration of new oil and gas fields is at odds with the Paris Agreement.

And let’s not forget, our victory over Shell in 2021 brought about a wave of positive change:

• All around the world, people have been filing successful climate lawsuits against polluting corporations and governments;
• More people are joining the climate movement each day;
• And maybe most importantly: we now have EU-wide legislation telling corporations to bring their business into line with the Paris Agreement.

Imagine what more we can accomplish if we work together!

We need you now more than ever

Large polluters know that continuing business as usual is not an option. But they are unlikely to change out of their own choice. We know this is a tough battle, and sometimes losing is part of it. This judgment will change nothing about our eagerness to keep fighting. Which is why we need you. Now more than ever. 

Will you join our movement?

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