Puerto Rico has filed a lawsuit against major fossil fuel companies, accusing them of misleading the public about climate change and impeding the shift to clean energy. The lawsuit seeks $1 billion in damages to help the island defend itself against climate-related disasters. It alleges that the companies violated trade law by promoting fossil fuels without sufficient warning of their dangers. This lawsuit is part of a growing trend of legal action holding fossil fuel companies accountable for the consequences of climate change. Puerto Rico expects to pay billions of dollars in the future to deal with climate-related catastrophes and is requesting that the defendants contribute to a fund for mitigating climate change impacts and strengthening the island’s infrastructure.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puerto Rico files suit against fossil fuel companies | Legal accountability for climate change damages | Increased legal action against fossil fuel companies | Growing recognition of the climate change impacts and desire for financial compensation for damages caused by fossil fuel companies. |