Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito will not take part in the high‑profile climate‑change case set to be heard next week, after environmental groups urged his recusal from the proceedings involving ExxonMobil and Suncor Energy.
The case, which centers on the two oil companies’ environmental practices, is expected to be a significant test of the Court’s approach to climate‑related litigation. Alito’s absence will leave the Court’s nine justices to decide the matter without his participation.
Environmental groups had called for Alito to step aside, citing concerns over potential conflicts of interest. The groups’ request was not the only reason for the Justice’s decision, but it was a prominent factor in the public discussion surrounding the case.
ExxonMobil and Suncor Energy have faced increasing scrutiny from climate advocates over their roles in global emissions. The Supreme Court’s review of the case is expected to have wide-reaching implications for the industry and for future environmental litigation.
While the Court has not issued a formal statement on the Justice’s withdrawal, the decision means that the remaining justices will hear the arguments and render a ruling without Alito’s input.
<small>Source: CNBC — read the original story there.</small>