Shell Wins Appeal, Overturns Dutch Court's Order to Cut Emissions by 45% by 2030

Nov 12, 2024, 08:14 AM

Shell has won an appeal against a landmark 2021 Dutch court ruling that had ordered the oil and gas company to sharply reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The appeals court in The Hague overturned the earlier decision on Tuesday, which had mandated that Shell cut its absolute carbon emissions by 45% by 2030 compared to 2019 levels, including those caused by the use of its products (Scope 3 emissions). The court found that there was no legal basis under Dutch law to impose such an order on the company. Shell's CEO Wael Sawan said the ruling aligns with their view on the global energy transition, adding that court mandates would not lower demand for fossil fuels and rival producers could simply increase output if Shell cuts back. The latest decision can be appealed to the Dutch Supreme Court.