Saul Luciano Lliuya has initiated legal proceedings against RWE, a German energy firm, claiming its emissions are linked to the melting glaciers threatening his hometown in Peru. He seeks €17,000 for protective measures against flooding risks posed by nearby glacial lakes. The case, which underscores issues of corporate accountability for climate change impacts, has seen slow progress since its filing in 2015. Current hearings may determine potential liability and future implications for similar cases.
On March 18, a significant hearing commenced at the Higher Regional Court of Hamm, Germany, concerning a lawsuit brought by Peruvian farmer Saul Luciano Lliuya against the German energy firm RWE. Mr. Lliuya alleges that RWE’s operations are contributing to the melting of glaciers in the Peruvian Andes, threatening his hometown of Huaraz with potential flooding from an unstable glacial lake.
Mr. Lliuya demands that RWE, recognized as one of the largest carbon dioxide emitters globally, should contribute approximately €17,000 towards protective measures against the dangers posed by the melting glaciers, which endanger more than 50,000 residents in the region. He cites evidence from a 2014 study attributing 0.47% of global carbon emissions since the industrial revolution to RWE, suggesting this entitles him to compensation for risk mitigation.
Despite filing the lawsuit in 2015, which was initially dismissed, Lliuya’s case was later acknowledged by a higher court that permitted the collection of evidence. The slow progress was aggravated by delays from the COVID-19 pandemic, although hearings are now underway to assess the extent of climate risks in Huaraz.
A critical aspect of the upcoming hearings is the evaluation of how much risk Lliuya’s estate faces from potential flooding. The outcome could determine RWE’s liability and whether they should bear part of the costs for necessary dam constructions to guard against overflow. Legal advocates argue that companies like RWE should be held financially accountable for the environmental damage caused by greenhouse gas emissions.
RWE has expressed concerns regarding the implications of a ruling favoring Lliuya, stating it could set a troubling precedent for holding corporations liable under German law for international environmental impacts. Past judgments declared it difficult to link specific emissions to particular damages, posing significant legal challenges. These hearings may mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse about corporate responsibility in the face of climate change.
Saul Luciano Lliuya’s legal action against RWE underscores a growing movement towards climate justice and corporate accountability for environmental impacts. As the court evaluates the risk to Lliuya’s property from melting glaciers, the case may establish significant precedents regarding corporate liability for global emissions. The outcome of this legal battle could influence future environmental litigation and highlight the responsibilities of multinational corporations in addressing climate change.
Original Source: andina.pe
