A Swiss court has agreed to hear a groundbreaking climate lawsuit filed by residents of a small Indonesian island against global cement producer Holcim, marking an unprecedented step in climate litigation within Switzerland.
The decision was announced on Monday by non-governmental organisations supporting the plaintiffs, including Swiss Church Aid (HEKS). It represents part of a broader international push to hold major corporations accountable for their role in climate change and its devastating effects, particularly on vulnerable communities in developing countries.
“This is the first time a Swiss court has accepted a climate lawsuit brought against a large multinational company,” the NGOs said in a joint statement.
Island Residents Seek Climate Accountability
The case was filed in January 2023 by four residents of Pari Island, a low-lying island in Indonesia that has been steadily losing land due to rising sea levels. Environmental groups report that about 11 percent of the island’s 42 hectares has already been submerged, warning that the island could disappear entirely by 2050 if current trends continue.
While climate lawsuits have often targeted oil and gas companies, campaigners say this case highlights the cement industry’s significant contribution to global warming. Cement production accounts for approximately eight percent of global carbon dioxide emissions caused by human activity.
Court Decision and Company Reaction
The case will be heard by a court in Zug, where Holcim is headquartered. The judges ruled that the complaint should be admitted in full. Both the plaintiffs and the company were informed of the decision ahead of its public release and have the option to appeal.
Holcim said it had anticipated the ruling and confirmed its intention to appeal. The company maintains that climate change should be addressed through legislation and public policy rather than the courts, despite reaffirming its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The supporting NGOs said the court rejected Holcim’s argument that legal proceedings are an inappropriate forum for climate action.
Demands and Broader Impact
Although Holcim has not owned cement plants in Indonesia since 2019, the plaintiffs argue that the company remains partly responsible for climate-related harm due to its historical and global emissions. Environmental advocates note that Holcim is among the world’s top 100 corporate emitters of carbon dioxide.
The islanders are seeking compensation of 3,600 Swiss francs (about $4,500) each to address climate damage and support protective measures such as mangrove restoration and the construction of coastal barriers. According to HEKS, the figure represents 0.42 percent of the estimated total costs, aligning with studies attributing 0.42 percent of global industrial CO₂ emissions since 1750 to Holcim.
In addition to compensation, the plaintiffs are demanding significant emissions reductions from the company—43 percent by 2030 and 69 percent by 2040.
A Potential Precedent
One of the plaintiffs, Asmania, welcomed the court’s decision, saying it has renewed their determination. “This ruling gives us the strength to continue our struggle,” she said.
Legal experts and environmental groups say the case could set a powerful precedent, expanding climate accountability beyond the fossil fuel sector and potentially reshaping how corporations are held responsible for climate-related loss and damage worldwide.
Source: Yen.com.gh
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