This week's documents explore the long and painful fight against the American Oil company Chevron for their wilful destruction of environment. The documents themselves are relatively straight forward as they are court documents and a report on the case itself. I think the biggest thing to take from these documents and the case itself is the disgusting and careless actions of Chevron in regards to its operations. Whilst the initial dumping of toxic waste into unlined pits and other environmental destructive actions occurred during a time when knowledge of the environmental effects was limited and potential costs of litigation and good will by Chevron was small, the fact that the case has remained unsettled with out an apology is frustrating. From document 11.1 it is clear that Chevron admitted that its practices were destructive to the environment but as it had a responsibility to its shareholders, the cheapest strategy was the best strategy. After briefly skimming through Michelle's blog post I think think she hit the nail on the head regarding the idea that 'it was' common practice is a legitimate defence. It is disgusting that this corporation has been allowed to blatantly attempt to bully the court systems of multiple countries not only in this case in Ecuador but around the world.
A quick google search will result in numerous cases about environmental damage and breaches of government standards and international laws by Texaco. Their strategy is similar to a retreating Russian army or an advancing german army during WWII. Take all that we need and then burn the rest so no one else can enjoy. I understand the need to represent the interests of your shareholders but please big powerful corporations just respect humanity and respect the environment.
You say it is frustrating that "the case has remained unsettled with out an apology". Do you think an apology is enough? Is it just a start? What is the role of an apology and are they ever honest?
ReplyDeleteI do agree that it is disgusting that corporations have been allowed to bully the court systems of other countries. Unfortunately, today's world is largely determined by the interests of large corporations, particularly oil companies. What can we do but challenge their narratives and justification for power?
I think an apology can be quite meaningful and whilst it definitey is not enough, an apology can be the first step in the right direction. For example, back home in Australia, then Prime minister Kevin Rudd delivered what was called the 'Sorry speech' to the stolen generation of aboriginals. Whilst he admits that his words don't have the ability to turn back time and right their wrongs he hopes that the acknowledgment of the government's failures serves as an apology.
ReplyDeleteIndividually we are powerless and together on the street with have only a little power. Time is our greatest ally in the fight against these corporations. Eventually, those in charge will step down and younger people will come into power. Hopefully they will have a better understanding on what is right and what is wrong and eventually we may see a difference. Whilst saying that, we all know the saying that "absolute power corrupts absolutely", so there is the risk that those in charge will just be replaced by new power hungry people.
I have hope for the future! With the rise of social media and crowdsourcing, legitimate and influential campaigns are possible and through these medias, I think eventually the people will have a proper voice and the ability to stand against the big corporations
Its interesting however because these big oil companies are comprised of millions of tiny people. Its a hugely corrupt system because the workers are not taught to be extremely cautious about the environment and even if they are they truly don't care (generally speaking) . Its easy to slack off on a job such as this with a set salary because even if you do slip up the corporation will be able to cover it. Its so systematic; I think the key to resolution would be a complete change in policy and benefits. The workers need more of an incentive to take environmental precautions and need to understand the devastation that is caused from such events.
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