A court in Switzerland has decided to examine a major climate change lawsuit filed against Swiss cement company Holcim. The lawsuit was initiated by residents of Pari Island in Indonesia, who claim that rising sea levels and frequent flooding are directly threatening their livelihoods.
According to the plaintiffs, the global cement industry is among the largest polluters, and the activities of major corporations have significantly contributed to accelerating the climate crisis. They emphasize that the damage is already tangible, including land loss, damage to homes, and serious threats to the safety of the local community.
The court’s decision to admit the case is considered historic in Switzerland, as it marks the first time a multinational company headquartered in the country is facing legal proceedings over the consequences of climate change occurring outside Swiss territory. Legal experts and environmental law specialists assess that this case could set a precedent for similar lawsuits in the future.
For its part, Holcim has rejected the allegations and stressed that it is committed to reducing CO₂ emissions and achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The company stated that it will pursue all legal avenues to defend itself.
This development has sparked widespread debate within Swiss public opinion, where discussions are intensifying over the responsibility of major corporations in addressing the climate crisis, reports Swissinfo.ch, cited by albinfo.ch.
