In a groundbreaking development, major Italian oil company Eni is facing the first climate lawsuit in Italy, brought by twelve Italian citizens, Greenpeace Italy, and the Italian advocacy group ReCommon. The plaintiffs allege that Eni knowingly contributed to climate change by promoting fossil fuels despite being aware of the risks since 1970. This lawsuit highlights the growing global movement to hold corporations accountable for their role in exacerbating the climate crisis.
Eni, with its headquarters in Rome, is accused of employing "lobbying and greenwashing" tactics to advocate for increased fossil fuel use. The plaintiffs argue that Eni's policies violate the goals of the Paris Agreement, and they are seeking compensation for past and potential future damages. Notably, among the plaintiffs are the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the development bank Cassa Depositi e Prestiti S.p.A., both influential shareholders of Eni.
Evidence of Knowledge and Negligence
Greenpeace Italy and ReCommon uncovered a study from 1969-1970, commissioned by Eni's own research center, that warned of an imminent climate crisis resulting from the burning of fossil fuels and the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Additionally, Eni's company magazine, Ecos, repeatedly referenced climate change in the late 1980s and 1990s while simultaneously promoting natural gas, a significant source of methane emissions, as a "clean" fuel in advertising campaigns. These findings suggest that Eni had knowledge of the potential consequences of its actions but failed to take appropriate measures to mitigate them.
The Lawsuit's Impact on Affected Regions
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit hail from regions already experiencing the devastating impacts of climate change, including drought, rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and glacial melt. Rachele Caravaglios, one of the plaintiffs, emphasizes the unfairness of Eni's continued investment in activities contrary to the best available climate science, limiting the options for creating a sustainable and equitable future for all. This lawsuit represents an effort by affected communities to seek justice and hold Eni accountable for its contribution to their plight.
The climate lawsuit against Eni aligns with several of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Primarily, it resonates with SDG 13: Climate Action, which calls for urgent measures to combat climate change and its impacts. By seeking to reduce Eni's emissions by at least 45% by 2030, compared to 2020 levels, the plaintiffs are advocating for concrete action to limit global temperature increase, in line with the Paris Agreement's goal of keeping it well below 2 degrees Celsius.
Moreover, the lawsuit's focus on transparency, accountability, and responsible corporate behavior reflects the essence of SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. It emphasizes the importance of access to justice, accountable institutions, and the rule of law in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development.
The climate lawsuit against Eni exemplifies the growing recognition that corporations must be held accountable for their role in driving climate change. It highlights the need for a transition to a sustainable and low-carbon future, where businesses prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility. The lawsuit also underscores the power of civil society in demanding action and catalyzing change.
As more climate-related lawsuits are filed worldwide, the collective voice of affected communities, non-governmental organizations, and individuals becomes stronger. These legal actions play a crucial role in raising awareness, pushing for policy changes, and compelling corporations to align their practices with the global vision of a sustainable society.
The climate lawsuit against Eni represents a pivotal moment in Italy's fight against climate change and corporate accountability. It sheds light on Eni's alleged disregard for the risks posed by fossil fuel use and its failure to take appropriate action despite possessing knowledge of the impending climate crisis. The lawsuit's connection to the Sustainable Development Goals emphasizes the urgency of climate action and the importance of responsible corporate behavior. Ultimately, this legal action symbolizes the global community's commitment to holding corporations accountable for their environmental impact and striving for a sustainable and equitable future.
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