Attorney General James Uthmeier Leads Multistate Coalition Warning ‘Climate Cartel’ Ringleader, Ceres, to Stop Antitrust Violations

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.-Attorney General James Uthmeier led a coalition of Attorneys General from Alaska, Georgia, Idaho, North Dakota, and South Dakota in issuing a warning letter to climate activist group Ceres over concerns that its coordinated actions violate State and Federal antitrust and consumer protection laws.

"Ceres-a ringleader of the "climate cartel"-is open about its notorious goals to achieve net-zero carbon emissions," said Attorney General James Uthmeier. "The assault on American families and businesses through what Ceres calls a "Global World War" to achieve net zero must stop. Failure to do so will result in a multi-state barrage of anti-trust enforcement."

The letter outlines concerns that Ceres has acted as a central coordinator for efforts designed to pressure financial institutions and corporations to steer capital away from certain investments. Ceres coordinates these efforts to pressure corporations by engaging with their stakeholders and shareholders. In one instance, Ceres went as far as participating in a plan to replace the entire board of ExxonMobil to send a message to other corporations of what could happen to them if they do not cooperate.

The letter goes on to explain that Ceres openly promotes efforts to "transform industries," achieve "systemic changes," and "change business practices." The way Ceres goes about coordinating these efforts raises concerns of coordinated action among market participants, which constitutes unlawful collusion, a violation of antitrust laws.

In addition to concerns over antitrust violations, the letter explains that companies who do not comply with Ceres' unrealistic agenda risk facing claims of "greenwashing" which would be misleading to their potential customers. This could trigger violations of consumer protection laws.

The coalition has requested that Ceres provide an explanation as to how its behavior does not violate antitrust and consumer protection laws, along with supportive documentation.

To view the letter in full, click here.

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