Planet: Critical Climate Criminals | Aaron Regunberg
Jan 9, 2025
Aaron Regunberg, a lawyer and former Rhode Island politician, dives deep into the urgent fight against Big Oil’s role in climate change. He discusses groundbreaking legal strategies aimed at criminally prosecuting fossil fuel companies, exploring historical parallels to big tobacco. Regunberg outlines the challenges of navigating corporate accountability and highlights the importance of grassroots mobilization for climate justice. He also calls for engaging narrative and collaboration to shift public perception and promote meaningful change. Tune in for an insightful conversation on climate litigation!
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Exxon's 1989 Warning
- In 1989, Exxon's manager of science and strategy development warned the board that the fossil fuel industry might face regulation similar to CFCs.
- The presentation highlighted Exxon's awareness of the potential for climate change regulation and their subsequent disinformation campaign.
Potential Criminal Charges Against Big Oil
- Criminal charges like reckless endangerment, conspiracy, racketeering, and climate homicide could apply to Big Oil's actions.
- Proving causation is the biggest challenge in climate litigation.
Targeting Companies vs. Individuals
- Focusing on companies as defendants in climate litigation offers advantages for achieving climate solutions through court orders.
- Targeting individuals like CEOs can be powerful due to the personal threat of incarceration.