California Sues Exxon Mobil Over Alleged Plastic Waste Deception

California has filed a lawsuit against Exxon Mobil, accusing the oil giant of misleading the public about the effectiveness of its advanced recycling technology and its role in plastic pollution. The state aims to hold Exxon accountable and seeks civil penalties and an abatement fund for environmental damages.

California has taken legal action against Exxon Mobil, alleging that the corporation misled the public about its role in plastic waste pollution. The lawsuit follows a two-year investigation, revealed during Climate Week in New York City by Attorney General Rob Bonta.

AG Bonta stated that Exxon has been dishonest about its 'advanced recycling' technology, which converts hard-to-recycle plastic into fuel. He claims the technology's slow progress indicates deliberate deception by Exxon. 'Today's lawsuit shows the fullest picture to date of ExxonMobil's decades-long deception,' Bonta declared.

Exxon denies the allegations, asserting it has not misled the public about recycling or climate change. The lawsuit comes ahead of global plastic treaty negotiations, where nations debate production caps—a measure opposed by Exxon.

(With inputs from agencies.)