climate change trial : NPR

Climate Change Trial: ExxonMobil Goes to Court In a landmark climate change trial, ExxonMobil, one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies, has been taken to court by the State of New York. The trial centres on whether or not the company has misled investors and shareholders about the true cost and impact of climate change on its business. According to the lawsuit, ExxonMobil allegedly used two sets of accounting books: one with lower carbon costs for internal purposes and a second one, with higher, more accurate costs, for external reporting. ExxonMobil denies the allegations, arguing that they have always been transparent about the risks of climate change. The trial comes amid unyielding climate change protests worldwide, heightened concerns for environmental sustainability and a renewed drive to reduce carbon emissions. The outcome of the trial could have far-reaching implications not just for ExxonMobil, but for the entire fossil fuel industry. It could put pressure on companies to disclose more accurate climate risk assessments, and give more power to investors demanding change. This case demonstrates how individual battles in the struggle against climate change have the potential to shape the way we live; from how we generate power, to how we invest our money. The climate change trial is a reminder that environmentally sustainable practices are essential.