Greenpeace Ordered to Pay $660 Million in Dakota Access Pipeline Case
A North Dakota jury has ordered Greenpeace to pay over $660 million to Energy Transfer and its subsidiary Dakota Access in connection with protests against the construction of the Dakota Access oil pipeline.
Energy Transfer accused Greenpeace International, Greenpeace USA, and Greenpeace Fund Inc. of defamation, trespass, nuisance, civil conspiracy, and other acts. Greenpeace USA was found liable for all counts, while the other entities were found liable for some. The damages will be divided among the three organizations.
Greenpeace maintains that the lawsuit was an attempt to silence dissent and bankrupt its opponents. They plan to appeal the decision.
The case stems from protests in 2016 and 2017 against the Dakota Access pipeline, which the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe opposed due to concerns about water contamination and cultural heritage. Thousands of protesters camped near the Standing Rock Reservation, where the pipeline crosses the Missouri River.
The pipeline began transporting oil in mid-2017 and currently carries about 5% of the United States' daily oil production.
Free speech and environmental advocates have criticized the trial, arguing that it was an attempt to suppress protest and silence opposition.
10 Comments
Habibi
This lawsuit is a reminder that corporations are not above the law. They must be held accountable for their actions.
The Truth
The Dakota Access pipeline is an environmental disaster waiting to happen. We must not allow it to operate.
Answer
we will not tolerate illegal protests that jeopardize our infrastructure projects.
The Truth
I believe in the power of peaceful protest. We must continue to fight for what is right, no matter the cost.
Raphael
Greenpeace's actions were reckless and irresponsible. They should pay for the damage they caused.
Africa
Greenpeace has every right to protest a pipeline that threatens the environment and the lives of Indigenous people.
Muchacha
We cannot let corporate interests silence our voices. We must continue to speak out and demand justice.
Comandante
I urge everyone to stand with Greenpeace and support their fight against the Dakota Access pipeline.
Muchacha
The future of our planet is at stake. We must stand up and fight for what we believe in.
ZmeeLove
I believe in the power of the people. Together, we can overcome this injustice and protect our environment.