Peruvian Farmer Pursues Landmark Climate Justice Case Against RWE

Saul Luciano Lliuya, a farmer from Peru, is pursuing legal action against the German energy company RWE due to climate change impacts affecting his hometown. He seeks contributions for flood defenses based on RWE’s historical emissions. The case is seen as a potential landmark in climate justice, gaining support from environmental NGOs.

Saul Luciano Lliuya, a Peruvian farmer, is engaged in a significant legal battle against the German energy company RWE, asserting that the firm should contribute to flood defenses in his hometown of Huaraz due to climate change damages. He set to travel to Germany for a crucial hearing from March 17-19 in Hamm, expressing his confidence in the German legal system.

Lliuya seeks approximately 17,000 euros ($18,400) from RWE to fund a dike project that would protect his community from the overflowing risks of a glacial lake. He bases his claims on a 2013 climate study attributing 0.5 percent of global emissions to RWE since industrialization began.

Although his initial lawsuit against RWE in 2015 was dismissed by a lower court in Essen, an appeal was accepted by a higher court in Hamm in 2017. Following a site visit in 2022 by German experts to assess the situation, the upcoming hearings will determine the admissibility of gathered evidence.

The case, backed by the environmental organization Germanwatch, aims to set a legal precedent in climate justice, with a spokesperson highlighting its potential global implications for similar civil matters. Conversely, RWE maintains that they comply with emission guidelines and questions why they are facing legal action despite not operating in Peru.

Saul Luciano Lliuya’s case against RWE reflects broader concerns regarding corporate responsibility in climate change impacts. As he prepares for the forthcoming legal proceedings in Germany, the outcome could have significant ramifications for climate justice and hold corporations accountable for their environmental contributions. Lliuya’s determination and the support from NGOs underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to climate-related legal challenges.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr