What is the core legal basis cited by the Paris court in holding TotalEnergies responsible for emissions from customers' use of its fuel products?

The Paris court based its ruling on France's corporate duty of vigilance law, finding that TotalEnergies is responsible for the planet-warming emissions released when customers use its fuel products.

What are TotalEnergies' main legal arguments against the court's decision?

TotalEnergies argues that climate change, as a global phenomenon, falls outside the scope of France's duty of vigilance law; it further contends that requiring companies in energy, defense, aeronautics, or automotive sectors to control risks arising from customers' use of their products contradicts the law’s objectives and violates principles of legal certainty and freedom to conduct business.

TotalEnergies to Appeal French Court Decision on Climate Change Adaptation

Jul 27, 2026

TotalEnergies plans to appeal a Paris court ruling requiring alignment with climate goals under France's duty of vigilance law. The company argues controlling customer product emissions exceeds legal scope and infringes on business freedom.

reuters

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