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Shell Wins Appeal in Dutch Climate Case, Activists Vow to Continue Fight. Shell has successfully appealed a 2021 court ruling in the Netherlands that ordered it to reduce its carbon emissions by 45% by 2030. The Dutch Court of Appeal dismissed all claims against Shell brought by environmental groups, including Friends of the Earth. The initial decision mandated that Shell reduce emissions to protect Dutch citizens, including those from the use of its products. Shell’s defense argued that emission reduction mandates should be set by national governments and that limiting its operations would simply shift production to competitors. The ruling was issued as the COP29 climate summit took place in Azerbaijan, adding significance to the ongoing global debate over corporate climate responsibility. Shell recently weakened its 2030 emissions reduction goals and removed a 2035 target, citing high demand for gas and uncertainty in the energy transition. Environmental groups have the option to appeal to the Netherlands’ Supreme Court, continuing their fight on human rights grounds to curb corporate emissions. Although ruling in Shell's favor, the court agreed with activists that Shell has a responsibility to lower greenhouse gas emissions to combat global warming. CEO Wael Sawan expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, emphasizing Shell’s goal to become a net-zero emissions business by 2050 and reduce operational emissions by 2030. Friends of the Earth’s Donald Pols expressed disappointment but noted that the case has spurred discussion on the accountability of major polluters in addressing climate change.
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