Shell oil non-profit donated to anti-climate groups behind Project 2025

A foundation linked to Shell has reportedly donated over $544,000 to various conservative and religious organizations that often deny climate change and promote right-wing agendas. These donations, made between 2013 and 2022, include contributions to groups like the Heartland Institute, which has a history of spreading climate disinformation, and the Heritage Foundation, which is behind Project 2025—a conservative initiative advocating for significant changes to the federal government, including limiting the Environmental Protection Agency's powers. The Shell USA Company Foundation, which facilitates employee charitable giving, claims it does not endorse any specific organizations, stating that donations are a personal choice made by employees. However, the foundation's financial support has been directed towards groups that oppose progressive policies, including those related to climate change, LGBTQ+ rights, and abortion access. Critics argue that these contributions help Shell maintain influence within conservative circles, potentially undermining efforts to address climate issues. The foundation's president is Gretchen Watkins, who also serves as the president of Shell USA. Despite the foundation's broad charitable giving, a significant portion of its funding has gone to organizations that actively work against climate action and progressive reforms.

- Shell's foundation donated over $544,000 to conservative groups denying climate change.

- Beneficiaries include the Heartland Institute and the Heritage Foundation, both influential in right-wing politics.

- The foundation claims to not endorse specific organizations, emphasizing employee choice in donations.

- Critics highlight the potential for these donations to undermine climate action efforts.

- The foundation's president is also the president of Shell USA, indicating a close relationship between the company and its charitable activities.