Shell’s directors still do not want to say goodbye to oil and gas. Despite claiming to “strongly support” the Paris Agreement, Shell is actively appealing a landmark court ruling in the Netherlands that states Shell must reduce its carbon emissions and is already failing to comply with the verdict. Meanwhile, the company has moved its headquarters to the UK and is continuing with plans to invest billions in further oil and gas extraction, including opening new oil fields off the North Sea. Climate scientists have made it clear: if we are to have any hope of a liveable planet for future generations, we need no new oil and gas. Shell has no shortage of social and environmental controversies; from harmful oil spills and alleged bribery cases, to being linked to the killing of the “Ogoni Nine” and allegations of collusion between Shell and the then military government of Nigeria. In the midst of a climate emergency and an energy price crisis that has already plunged millions of people into fuel poverty, the last thing we need is shareholders of an oil giant meeting to discuss how they are going to maximise profits and destroy the lives of communities around the world. If Shell thinks that moving to the UK comes with less scrutiny for their planet-wrecking activities, they need to think again. Join us in London on Tuesday 24 May to make sure Shell’s directors and shareholders hear us loud and clear: no new fossil fuels — not here, not anywhere.
