No defeat for Milieudefense

Professors Christina Eckes and Phillip Paiement (Tilburg University) wrote an opinion article in the Dutch newspaper, NRC, regarding the recent verdict in the Shell v Milieudefense case. Here is a snapshot of their article published on 19 November:

‘There is no question of a defeat for Milieudefensie. On the legal principles of this case, Milieudefensie has largely won. The court has confirmed that Shell and other companies must contribute to reducing CO2 emissions. The court has also confirmed that Shell has an obligation to reduce the emissions of customers. It also becomes clear that investments in new oil and gas fields are problematic. All of that has remained in place and can be built upon in other legal cases. However, the court could not find sufficient reason to impose a 45 percent reduction or another percentage on Shell.’