Greenpeace has been held liable for $345 million in damages, approximately 3.3 billion Norwegian kroner, owed to Energy Transfer, the company overseeing the Dakota Access Pipeline in the United States. The lawsuit stemmed from Greenpeace's active participation in protests that opposed the construction of the pipeline, which has been a contentious issue due to its environmental implications and its impact on Indigenous lands. The case highlights the legal risks faced by environmental organizations when they engage in activism against major infrastructure projects.

The judgement was delivered by Judge James Gion in North Dakota and aligns with a previous ruling from October that reduced the jury's original damages award from about $667 million. Energy Transfer accused Greenpeace of disseminating misinformation about the pipeline project and contributing to significant delays in its construction. The jury, in March of the previous year, found Greenpeace guilty of several charges, including defamation, trespass, and conspiracy, reflecting the intense legal battles surrounding environmental activism in the United States.

This decision represents a significant moment for environmental advocacy and raises questions about the balance between corporate rights and the freedom of speech for activists. The substantial monetary judgment against Greenpeace could have a chilling effect on similar organizations, potentially discouraging them from pursuing legal and public protesting avenues against large corporations while also spotlighting the broader struggle over environmental policies and land rights in the context of climate change.