California Sues Exxon: Battling Plastic Pollution with Public Nuisance Claims

California has filed a public nuisance lawsuit against Exxon, accusing it of misleading the public about the effectiveness of plastic recycling, contributing to global plastic pollution. The state seeks to make Exxon pay for abatement. This is part of a broader trend of using public nuisance claims in environmental litigation.

California's latest legal move targets Exxon, accusing it of contributing to global plastic pollution by misleading the public on recycling efficacy. The lawsuit leverages the public nuisance theory, focusing on behavior that harms the general public.

Historically used in cases of obstructed roads or polluted waterways, public nuisance claims do not typically seek damages but rather aim to make the responsible parties pay to remedy the situation.

Exxon disputes the allegations, blaming California's recycling system issues. Previous public nuisance cases have ended in significant settlements, such as the $50 billion from opioid manufacturers. The outcome of California's effort remains to be seen, but the case is bolstered by additional claims under state laws.