New Zealand’s new law blocking climate lawsuits protects domestic corporations from potentially costly civil litigation
Executive summary: New Zealand enacted a law that bars civil lawsuits from surpassing the nation’s climate policy, thereby limiting corporate liability for climate-related claims. The legislation reduces the financial exposure of companies operating in New Zealand to climate litigation, influencing risk assessments and potential litigation strategies.
Who is involved: New Zealand government and parliament, opposition parties, domestic corporations, and climate activist groups.
Likely next: The law may face legal challenges domestically or internationally, and could prompt further debate on balancing climate accountability with corporate protection.
The New Zealand parliament passed legislation that prevents civil claims from exceeding the government’s climate policy, effectively shielding companies from climate‑related damages suits. The move was criticized by opposition parties and climate advocacy groups who argue it undermines accountability for emissions. The law applies to all civil litigation filed in New Zealand courts, regardless of the plaintiff’s nationality.
Timeline
- — La Nouvelle-Zélande adopte une loi pour empêcher les procès climatiques contre les entreprises (Le Figaro — Économie)