Farmers in Sindh who lost their land and livelihoods in the devastating 2022 floods have announced their intention to file a lawsuit against German companies alleged to be among the world’s biggest industrial polluters.
Farmers have issued formal legal notices to German energy giant RWE and cement manufacturer Heidelberg, warning that if compensation is not paid for their losses, a lawsuit will be filed in December.
The farmers argue that both companies are major global emitters responsible for climate change impacts, and should therefore compensate those suffering its consequences. They said they contributed the least to the climate crisis, yet continue to bear the heaviest losses, while companies in wealthy nations profit.
According to the affected farmers, their agricultural land was completely destroyed, with rice and wheat crops wiped out. They estimate losses exceeding €1 million, which they are seeking in damages from the German firms.
The German companies have responded by stating that they are examining the legal notices sent to them.
Citing the Global Climate Risk Index, UK media reported that Pakistan was the most climate-affected country in the world in 2022. Record monsoon rains submerged one-third of the country, leaving more than 1,700 people dead, over 33 million displaced and causing an economic loss of more than $30 billion.
Sindh was the worst-hit province, with some districts remaining underwater for up to a year.
