What the $660 Million Greenpeace Verdict Means for US Activism.

This article focuses on a North Dakota jury ruling that found Greenpeace liable for defamation, conspiracy, and related claims linked to its involvement in the 2016–2017 Dakota Access pipeline protests, awarding Energy Transfer LP $660 million in damages. Legal experts warn this verdict could deter environmental groups from protesting fossil fuel projects nationwide, especially in states like North Dakota that lack strong anti-SLAPP (strategic lawsuit against public participation) protections. Greenpeace plans to appeal and has filed a countersuit in the Netherlands. The article also notes that following the protests, North Dakota and other states enacted laws increasing penalties for civil disobedience targeting oil and gas infrastructure, influenced by industry lobbying.