Greenpeace, one of the most famous environmental groups, has been a pioneer of bold protests for over 50 years, famously confronting whaling ships, hanging banners from landmarks, and even being featured on popular TV shows. However, its future is now uncertain as a serious lawsuit with a $300 million price tag looms. This legal challenge could shutter its American offices.
This lawsuit stems from Greenpeace's involvement in protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline near the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation. The owner of the pipeline, Energy Transfer, claims Greenpeace incited unlawful actions against the project and orchestrated a damaging publicity campaign. In contrast, Greenpeace argues that their role was minimal and non-violent, warning that this suit is a dangerous attempt to stifle free speech and activism in the U.S. As a jury prepares to deliver its verdict, the stakes couldn't be higher for the once-mighty organization.
