Greenpeace Challenges Energy Transfer Lawsuit
SYDNEY — Greenpeace International and its U.S. affiliates are set to appeal a North Dakota District Court’s decision that awarded Energy Transfer $345 million. The decision was announced on February 28, 2026, as Greenpeace accused Energy Transfer of using legal tactics to suppress free speech and activism.
The legal battle, according to Greenpeace, is an attempt by Energy Transfer to stifle opposition to the Dakota Access Pipeline and undermine the Standing Rock movement. Mads Christensen, Executive Director of Greenpeace International, stated that the organization will continue to fight against what it describes as intimidation tactics.
Background on Legal Dispute
The judgment follows a jury verdict from March 2025 that initially found Greenpeace entities liable for over $660 million, which was later reduced. Greenpeace is also pursuing legal action in Europe, utilizing new anti-SLAPP legislation to counter what it describes as Energy Transfer’s abusive legal practices.
Kate Smolski, Program Director at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, highlighted the broader implications of the case, noting that such legal actions have a chilling effect on public interest litigation. She emphasized the need for collective resistance against tactics that threaten democratic engagement.
Greenpeace argues that the lawsuit is part of a broader trend of corporations using strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP) to silence opposition. This case has garnered international attention, with environmental groups and free speech advocates rallying in support of Greenpeace. They argue that the outcome could set a dangerous precedent for activists worldwide.
The Dakota Access Pipeline, a 1,172-mile underground oil pipeline in the United States, has been a focal point of environmental and indigenous rights protests. Greenpeace’s involvement in the protests has been part of a larger strategy to highlight the environmental risks associated with fossil fuel infrastructure and advocate for a transition to renewable energy sources.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
