In 1977, a publication by a predecessor of Marathon Petroleum warned that rising global temperatures could cause severe economic and social disruptions, including widespread starvation.
The 1977 article from Marathon Petroleum's predecessor predicted climate-related disasters due to industrial expansion.
The lawsuit claims Marathon and other companies concealed their knowledge of climate risks for decades.
Marathon is accused of opposing climate policies while privately acknowledging the dangers of carbon emissions.
Key quote:
"The climate is not going to get better, only worse. Over the long haul, we are going to have to brace ourselves for the prospect of a lot of poor harvests."
— J Murray Mitchell, NOAA scientist
Why this matters:
Companies like Marathon Petroleum knew about climate change risks long ago but continued to prioritize profit over environmental responsibility. Understanding this history is vital for holding them accountable and addressing current climate challenges.
Marathon Petroleum’s former CEO got a $272,000 bonus for surpassing environmental goals the same year the company spilled 1,400 barrels of oil in an Indiana creek.
Nationwide, poor communities are exposed to much more air pollution than wealthier ones. Scientists are racing to understand what role this may play in Covid-19.
