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Start for freeA Deep Dive into Big Oil's Knowledge and Denial of Climate Change
For over a century, oil and gas have been integral to economic growth and improving living standards. However, the industry faces a dilemma: its existence now threatens to catalyze global catastrophes through climate change. Recognizing the urgency to understand this paradox, a special three-part series investigates the industry's role in climate change denial, beginning with what Big Oil knew over 40 years ago.
The Staggering Early Knowledge
In the 1980s, Exxon's rigorous, peer-reviewed research on climate change was groundbreaking. Despite uncertainties, one thing was clear: human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, were unequivocally linked to global warming. This knowledge posed an existential threat to the fossil fuel industry, leading to a deeply unethical decision to obfuscate reality and spread disinformation.
The Existential Threat and Industry Response
As the science became more certain, Exxon and others in the industry realized that acknowledging the science would necessitate monumental changes to their business models. Instead of transitioning, they chose to double down on denial, maintaining that scientific evidence was inconclusive and that no drastic action was warranted.
The Recruitment of Exxon and the Shift in Strategy
Exxon's recruitment from top colleges exemplified the company's desire to become a leading energy company with diversified interests, including environmental research. The company's scientists were fully aware of climate change implications, yet as oil prices dropped in the 1980s, Exxon began to pull back on its environmental research, laying the groundwork for a broader industry-wide denial campaign.
Investigative Findings and Public Deception
Journalists and researchers uncovered documents revealing Exxon's deep internal discussions about climate change. These documents contrasted sharply with the public narrative of doubt and denial that Exxon and other industry players propagated. The evidence suggests that the industry had a sophisticated understanding of climate science, yet chose to publicly deny these findings.
The Political Influence and Misinformation Tactics
The fossil fuel industry's influence extended to the corridors of power. Through a mix of lobbying, funding contrarian scientists, and manipulating public opinion, they managed to shape policy and delay action on climate change. Notably, the industry's funding of campaigns and studies that emphasized economic downsides and job losses effectively swayed public and political opinion against climate action.
The Consequences of Delay
The delay in addressing climate change has had far-reaching consequences. The industry's actions have contributed to the squandering of crucial time, with parts of the world now facing severe and unnecessary suffering. As the evidence of climate change becomes increasingly undeniable, the cost of inaction continues to mount.
Conclusion: The Continuing Fight Against Climate Misinformation
The struggle against climate misinformation is far from over. Despite overwhelming scientific consensus, the fossil fuel industry continues to sow doubt and impede policy progress. The legacy of their early knowledge and subsequent denial is a cautionary tale of missed opportunities and the urgent need to rectify past mistakes for the future of the planet.
For a more comprehensive understanding of this critical issue, watch the original video that delves into the epic story of Big Oil's failure to tackle climate change here.
