A court in Switzerland has agreed to hear a climate-related lawsuit filed by residents of Indonesia’s low-lying Pari Island against Holcim, one of the world’s largest cement manufacturers. The case, lodged in the Canton of Zug, argues that Holcim’s long-term carbon emissions have contributed to rising sea levels that are now regularly flooding the island and threatening homes, livelihoods, and freshwater supplies. Supported by international rights and environmental groups, the plaintiffs say the decision to admit the case marks an important step toward examining corporate responsibility for climate damage beyond national borders.
The islanders are seeking financial compensation for losses already incurred, funding for protective measures such as coastal defenses and mangrove restoration, and a court order requiring Holcim to further reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. Legal experts view the case as part of a growing wave of climate litigation aimed at holding major polluters accountable for their share of global warming impacts, particularly on vulnerable communities. Holcim has stated that it is pursuing emissions reductions in line with its net-zero target by 2050, while maintaining that climate action should be driven by government policy rather than judicial intervention. More