A North Dakota jury has found Greenpeace liable for defamation and other claims related to protests against the Dakota Access pipeline, ordering the environmental group to pay over $660 million in damages to Energy Transfer, a Dallas-based oil and gas company.
The lawsuit stemmed from the 2016–2017 protests against the pipeline, particularly its Missouri River crossing near a tribal reservation. The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe has long opposed the project, citing concerns about water supply risks and sacred burial grounds.
During the trial, Energy Transfer accused Greenpeace International and Greenpeace USA of defamation, trespass, nuisance, and civil conspiracy. The company’s attorney argued that Greenpeace funded and organized protesters, provided blockade supplies, conducted training sessions, and spread misinformation to hinder the pipeline’s construction.
Greenpeace attorneys denied the allegations, stating that there was no evidence linking the organization to the protesters’ disruptions. They argued that the lawsuit was an attempt to suppress activism through financial and legal pressure.
The jury found Greenpeace USA liable on all counts, with damages totaling nearly $666.9 million. Greenpeace USA is responsible for the largest share of around $404 million, while Greenpeace Fund Inc. and Greenpeace International must each pay approximately $131 million.
Energy Transfer hailed the verdict as a victory for North Dakotans affected by the protests, emphasizing the distinction between free speech and unlawful behavior. The company’s spokesperson highlighted the disruptions caused by protesters funded and trained by Greenpeace.
Greenpeace has not publicly responded to the ruling and is reportedly planning to appeal the decision to the North Dakota Supreme Court, according to EarthRights International. The environmental group raised concerns about trial irregularities, including alleged jury ties to the fossil fuel industry and the denial of Greenpeace’s requests for a venue change.
Despite the verdict, EarthRights expressed solidarity with Greenpeace USA in defending against legal attacks and ensuring the growth of the environmental movement. The organization aims to continue advocating for environmental causes despite setbacks in North Dakota.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
