Climate change is the new, fast-growing field of litigation
The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. While some eco-activists break the law, others are using it to their advantage, writes Chris Blackhurst . The rise of greenwashing the suing of companies over their climate change credentials is a fast-growing field of litigation that should have big corps seriously concerned Greenpeace campaigners outside the High Court to challenge the governments decision to announce a new round of oil and gas licensing A t the last count, there were more than 1,000 cases pending in the US courts. In Australia, the country with the next highest, there were almost 200. The UK and other jurisdictions are also notching up increasing instances of lawsuits in this area. This is the new, fast-growing field of litigation: the climate crisis . Businesses need to wake up, and quick. As governments prevaricate and stumble over setting meaningful climate targets , activists and campaigners are stepping up their efforts. Some are glueing themselves to roads and disrupting traffic and breaking the law, others are actually using the law to their advantage. In their sights are businesses that have allegedly failed to adhere to ESG policies and measures ( Environmental, social, and corporate governance ) that have become enshrined in regulation and statute. Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Greenpeace campaigners outside the High Court to challenge the governments decision to announce a new round of oil and gas licensing Tom Gibbs/Greenpeace Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today. Log in New to The Independent? Or if you would prefer: Want an ad-free experience? Hi {{indy.fullName}}