In the 1960s, Americans across various sectors, including government and media, were aware of climate change, contrary to recent Supreme Court opinions.
Historian Naomi Oreskes uncovered evidence that scientists, Congress and even magazines like Sports Illustrated discussed climate change before 1970.
A forthcoming paper reveals more than 100 congressional hearings on CO2 and climate issues before the Clean Air Act's enactment.
The research challenges current legal interpretations, suggesting Congress intended to empower the EPA to regulate greenhouse gases.
Key quote:
“We discovered a universe of discussions by scientists, by members of Congress, by members of the executive branch.”
— Naomi Oreskes, historian of science at Harvard University
Why this matters:
This research highlights a forgotten history of climate awareness, challenging narratives that downplay past knowledge and intent. Recognizing this history could inform current legal and policy debates about climate regulation.
Scientists say there's a lot we can still do to slow the speed of climate change. But when it comes to "climate solutions", some are real, and some aren't, says Naomi Oreskes, historian of science at Harvard University.
The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy will hold a first-of-its-kind roundtable with leading scientists today on the urgent need to combat climate change and counter arguments for delaying climate action.
Harvard historian Naomi Oreskes believes the coronavirus may be a 'dress rehearsal' for the climate catastrophe looming on the horizon – and suggests why people want to deny both threats.
Naomi Oreskes is a familiar face on Capitol Hill. The Harvard University professor has testified twice in as many weeks about the fossil fuel industry's efforts to cast doubt on mainstream climate science.
