lies
Many congressional Republicans still deny climate science
An analysis reveals that 123 Republican lawmakers in Congress deny human-caused climate change despite declining numbers from previous years.
In short:
- The Center for American Progress found 123 House and Senate Republicans deny the scientific consensus on climate change.
- This group includes prominent leaders like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise.
- Despite the reduction in numbers, these members have collectively received $52 million from the fossil fuel industry.
Key quote:
“It's also concerning because it’s so obvious what the facts are, and to watch so many members of Congress pretend that the science is not settled, it just reveals a willingness to disregard truth.”
— Trevor Higgins, senior vice president for energy and environment, Center for American Progress
Why this matters:
Lawmakers denying climate science hinder efforts to address climate change effectively. Their significant influence and funding from fossil fuel interests could stall crucial policy actions needed to mitigate environmental impacts.
Trump falsely claims Biden's climate policies will weaken the military
Donald Trump claims that President Biden's climate policies, including electric tanks and sustainable fuel jets, will weaken U.S. military power, despite the Pentagon's plans to address climate change without compromising military effectiveness.
In short:
- Trump has criticized Biden's climate policies, claiming they will reduce military efficiency and effectiveness.
- The U.S. military has plans to reduce carbon emissions and explore sustainable fuels while maintaining operational capabilities.
- Experts argue that electric and hybrid military vehicles offer battlefield advantages and reduce logistical challenges.
Key quote:
“It is not the goal to fail, the goal is to succeed... to have stuff that works well, that provides operational advantages, and also reduces environmental impact.”
— John Conger, director emeritus of the Center for Climate and Security and senior adviser to the Council on Strategic Risks
Why this matters:
Critics argue that Trump's comments overlook the long-term benefits of sustainable military technologies. Electric vehicles and alternative fuels could enhance operational flexibility and resilience, reducing vulnerabilities associated with fuel supply chains. In addition, advancements in green technology are poised to maintain, if not enhance, the military's combat capabilities.
China is quick to combat social media's climate lies - but not when they are about their critics
China has been quick to take down some climate disinformation recently but posts criticising Greta Thunberg have remained up.
Bad-faith actors spreading lies about climate change, warns WMO
Public knowledge around climate change is being marred by "widespread" misinformation by "bad faith actors sowing doubt and confusion", according to the World Meteorological Organisation.
Myths about fossil fuels and renewable energy are circulating again. Don’t buy them
A large and growing fraction of U.S. residents understands that human-caused climate change is a significant problem in need of urgent solutions. But as public alarm increases, misinformation about fossil fuels and renewable energy has also seen an uptick.
Thom Hartmann: How Big Oil's acceleration of global warming has made winter cold more extreme
William Clay did not realize that the intentionally selfish actions by fossil fuel billionaires would lead to his death on a weekend in late December, but that was what happened.
Lawmaker who admitted to lying made carbon capture claims
Rep. George Santos has admitted to misleading his constituents about working at Citigroup and Goldman Sachs and to lying about his educational credentials. He also falsely claimed that his mother died on Sept. 11. Then, there are his climate falsehoods.
