Honolulu Takes Action: How a Bold Lawsuit Against Fossil Fuel Companies is Shaping the Future of Climate Change Litigation

HONOLULU (AP) — Honolulu is leading the charge in suing fossil fuel companies over climate change impacts. Unlike other cities, Honolulu’s lawsuit is further along. A key court hearing this week will show how things might unfold.

In 2020, the city took action against major oil firms like ExxonMobil and Shell. The lawsuit claims these companies knew for years that their products lead to greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change. Despite this, they continued to profit while misleading the public about their role in escalating the climate crisis.

Honolulu’s suit highlights the rising sea levels threatening Oahu’s famous shores. It also warns of increasing hurricanes, heatwaves, and ocean warming, all of which can harm local fishing and destroy coral reefs that attract tourists. The damages sought in this lawsuit are still unspecified.

Responses from the oil companies have been minimal. Many did not reply to media requests for comments. Companies like ConocoPhillips stated they don’t discuss ongoing legal matters.

A court hearing is set to address a defense motion to dismiss the case based on a two-year statute of limitations. The defense argues Honolulu’s claims are based on information publicly known for decades. “The climate change discussion has been ongoing for many years,” noted a Shell spokesperson, saying it’s not credible to claim ignorance about climate change.

While Honolulu’s case is making progress, three dozen other lawsuits from states and cities around the country are still in earlier stages. Legal expert Michael Gerrard from Columbia University believes that once the first trial happens, it will gather significant attention nationwide. “The oil companies have yet to be held accountable in court,” he explained.

Honolulu’s case has cleared several legal hurdles, including a previous attempt to dismiss it, and has gained attention from academics, including Naomi Oreskes from Harvard. She thinks this lawsuit is similar to past tobacco industry cases. Oreskes argues that fossil fuel companies have created doubt about climate change to hinder progress.

Interestingly, the state of Hawaii has also filed a lawsuit against fossil fuel companies. Despite federal pushback, officials argue that their state-level actions are necessary for accountability. A recent federal lawsuit aimed at stopping such state initiatives has drawn criticism. State representatives worry it undermines local efforts.

In a related development, a youth climate lawsuit against Hawaii’s transportation department was settled last year, committing to zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. This demonstrates a growing urgency to address climate change at all levels.

With rising temperatures, ocean threats, and changing weather patterns, the case from Honolulu could set new precedents in holding fossil fuel companies accountable for climate impacts. The outcome may influence other cities and lead to further discussions about corporate responsibility and environmental protection.

For more on climate accountability, check out this New York Times report.

— Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, The Associated Press

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