'Massive disinformation campaign' is slowing global transition to green energy
Fossil fuel companies are accused of disinformation hindering renewable energy transition. A global survey shows public support for phasing out fossil fuels, prompting the UN to call for equitable climate policies.
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Fossil fuel companies are reportedly conducting a significant disinformation campaign that is hindering the global transition to renewable energy, according to the UN. Selwin Hart, the UN's assistant secretary general, highlighted that this campaign is creating a false narrative of a backlash against climate action, which is influencing political leaders to delay necessary emissions-cutting policies. Despite this perception, a recent global survey indicates that a majority of people support a rapid shift away from fossil fuels. Hart emphasized the need for political leaders to recognize public support for climate action and to enhance their ambitions in line with the Paris Agreement. He noted that the consequences of climate inaction are increasingly evident, affecting both wealthy and poorer nations, with extreme weather events making it difficult for many to secure insurance for their homes. Hart urged governments to ensure that climate policies do not disproportionately impact low-income populations and called for new national plans detailing emissions reduction strategies. He stressed the importance of inclusive consultations in planning these transitions to ensure that all societal segments are considered. Despite the challenges, Hart asserted that the world is better equipped than ever to address climate change, with renewable energy becoming more affordable and the pace of transition accelerating.
- Fossil fuel companies are accused of spreading disinformation to slow the transition to renewable energy.
- A global survey shows strong public support for rapid fossil fuel phase-out.
- The UN calls for enhanced national plans for emissions reductions under the Paris Agreement.
- Climate inaction is increasingly impacting both rich and poor countries.
- Governments must ensure climate policies are equitable and consider vulnerable populations.
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2 commentsLater:
> "Each country will really need to ensure its transition is well planned to minimise the impact on people and vulnerable populations, because a lot of the so-called pushback comes when there’s a perception that the costs on poor and vulnerable persons are being disproportionately felt"
And also:
> “But we really need leaders now to deliver maximum ambition. And we need maximum cooperation. Unfortunately, we are not seeing that at the moment.”
And yet:
> “Renewables are the cheapest they’ve ever been, the pace of the energy transition is accelerating,” he said.
So it sounds like fossil fuel companies are pushing disinformation... that is accurate. And that leaders are not pushing hard enough for progress... that is happening anyway.
This is a case study in how to write diplomatic statements.
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