Today, Massachusetts became the second state to sue oil major ExxonMobil for publicly misrepresenting what its own scientists knew about the risks of climate change. A similar trial kicked off in New York earlier this week.
In response, Greenpeace USA Climate Campaign Director Janet Redman said:
“This is just the tip of the iceberg. The New York and Massachusetts Attorneys General are now investigating Exxon for misleading the public and investors about the risks of climate change, and many more states are sure to come. Already, over a dozen US cities and counties — including New York City, San Francisco, Boulder, and Baltimore — have also launched lawsuits to hold Exxon and other fossil fuel companies financially responsible for their role in creating the climate crisis. Whatever comes up during this month’s trial in New York and throughout the Massachusetts case could certainly be used by other public prosecutors and potential plaintiffs against Exxon in the future.”
This timeline compiled by Greenpeace USA details how Exxon’s scientists identified the risks of burning fossil fuels and fueling climate change as far back as the 1970s. Instead of taking action, the company invested in spreading misinformation and sowing doubt about climate science.
ENDS
Contact: Ryan Schleeter, Senior Communications Specialist, Greenpeace USA: +1 (415) 342-2386, [email protected]
