A Dutch court in The Hague has overturned a previous ruling mandating Shell to cut its CO₂ emissions by 45% from 2019 levels, marking a significant victory for the oil and gas giant. The court stated that while Shell has a responsibility to support international climate initiatives, it cannot be enforced to meet specific emission reduction percentages. This decision may influence similar environmental legal cases, as the main plaintiff, climate group Milieudefensie, plans to appeal to the highest court. Shell aims for a voluntary 50% reduction by 2030 amid concerns over potential carbon leakage to coal.