greenpeace--2020-08-17--What Should We Know About Wildfires in California

What Should We Know About Wildfires in California As California deals with another series of devastating wildfires , little attention is given to the issues that can make wildfires bigger , faster , and more dangerous to people and our nation ’ s treasured wildlands .
Here 's a look at what 's behind the occurrence of forest and wildland fires today .
As California enters what could be yet another devastating wildfire season , little attention has been given to the issues that can make wildfires bigger , faster , and more dangerous to people and our nation ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a look at what ’ s behind the occurrence of forest and wildland fires today .
California ’ s official wildfire season has started and already wildfires have burned through tens of thousands of acres and have forced thousands to evacuate their homes — all during a global pandemic where air quality and the ability to shelter-in-place are of critical importance to COVID-19 outcomes .
In 2018 , the Camp Fire in Northern California became the most deadly fire in the state ’ s recorded history .
That same year , destructive fires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Hill fires engulfed iconic areas of Malibu and West Hills , leaving dozens dead , hundreds missing , and thousands of structures destroyed .
Dramatic media stories tend to highlight what ’ s currently happening with firefighting efforts , but little attention is spent looking at the vast number of issues that influence wildfire behavior and how they impact people and our nation ’ s treasured wildlands .
Worse , some politicians and corporations spread misinformation and false solutions when fires burn in an attempt to capitalize on these emergency situations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his Department of the Interior have long parroted talking points from a logging industry that is trying to gut environmental safeguards and increase taxpayer subsidized logging on public lands .
The following list is not a specific analysis of current or recent events , but rather a wider look at trends impacting the occurrence of both forest and wildland fires today .
Despite what the logging industry often says about needing more logging to remove ‘ fuel ’ , study after study has shown us that industrial logging makes communities less safe .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ very trees which are the most resistant to fire , and which create shade , logging is increasing fires and fire risk .
Logging older trees and opening up the forest canopy makes things hotter and drier , and more prone to fire .
The sticks and wood left over from logging , called “ slash , ” often remain behind for years on the ground and can act as kindling .
Industrial logging also requires roads .
Many thousands of old , unused logging roads riddle the U.S. National Forests , serving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In addition , these roads increase accidental and intentional human fires in our forests .
The legacy of taxpayer subsidized logging on our public lands and industrial logging on private lands has left us with a mess that will take many generations to fix .
Solution : Refocus the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management away from subsidized industrial logging to jobs focused on ecological restoration and preventative fire safety .
A “ put out every fire ” approach to wildland fire management for decades has left us with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , hot fires .
Many forests in the West have “ skipped ” fires that naturally would have occurred due to overly-aggressive fire suppression .
Ecologically speaking , these forests need to burn , as they have for thousands of years , to sustain a cycle of life , death , and renewal .
We need to protect people and property , but extinguishing every wildland fire in a region that needs them to regenerate only , well , backfires over time .
There are a whole host of things fires do for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to fuel the cycle of life , death , and regeneration that sustained forests for thousands of years before Europeans showed up .
Heavy-handed fire suppression is strongly supported by the logging industry whose spokespersons now , ironically , call for more aggressive logging to remedy the mistake they helped perpetrate in our forests for decades .
Solution : Prioritize fire-fighting to protect human lives and property ; don ’ t risk the lives of firefighters and waste taxpayer money on fires that are not threats to communities .
And leave fire-affected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — some of the most ecologically important forests in the American West are intact post-fire forests , known as snag forests , that provide vital wildlife habitat and are home to numerous imperiled species , such as Great Gray Owls , California Spotted Owls , and Black-backed Woodpeckers .
• Smokey the Bear was ( sorta ) right No matter how hot or dry , forests don ’ t spontaneously burst into flames .
An ignition source is needed to get a fire going .
In nature , it ’ s really only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And lightning often comes with rain .
However , human activity is really good at starting fires in a wide variety of ways , from campfires , cigarette butts , and fireworks to sparks from trailer hitch chains dragging on a road .
Urban infrastructure , like power lines , can also start fires , especially when not properly maintained .
These human-caused ignitions often happen at times of year when natural ignitions would rarely occur ( such as extreme droughts when lightning storms are relatively rare ) .
Humans are so ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 80 percent of wildland fires in the American West are ignited by human activity .
Solution : Reduce human-caused fire ignitions by closing and removing unneeded logging roads , and continue public education efforts ( we can agree on this , Smokey ) .
In addition , Smokey should also bring his message to corporations and governments that are in charge of the high risk infrastructure that oftentimes sparks these fires .
• Climate change can make the problems humans have created worse Though it is impossible to point to any fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it , there is broad scientific consensus that global warming will bring hotter , drier conditions to the American West , and set the stage for more dramatic fire events , including a longer fire season , an increase in larger fires , and fires that can grow more rapidly .
This , combined with decades of unsustainable logging , road-building , and fire suppression could push forests beyond their capacity to deal with fire .
Solution : Conserve natural forests , stop the expansion of fossil fuels , and foster a just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the worst impacts of the climate crisis .
Part of the skyrocketing cost of wildland fire fighting has resulted from expanded human development into what once was remote , fire-prone landscapes .
With more homes and buildings in hot-zones , there is more need for aggressive firefighting when fires do take place .
Just as building in a flood-plain or seismically-active area , homes and human infrastructure in fire-prone areas should be built and maintained with fire safety in mind .
Solution : Be smart about development , and be fire-ready .
Update @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safeguard homes ( known as home hardening ) , like vent and chimney screens and fire resistant roofs .
Prioritize prescribed burns and mechanical fuel removal in and around communities where it will do the most good .
Fund these efforts , and make sure rich and poor alike can live in fire-safe homes .
Prevention is worth much more , in terms of human lives , forest health , firefighter safety , and taxpayer dollars than desperate last-ditch fire fighting .
• Fire-fighting has changed — and it now involves a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over time based on technology , science and , perhaps most dramatically , politics .
The U.S. government ’ s approach to fire once was one of full-on direct attack — an approach that is costly and dangerous .
Now , an informal policy known as “ back off and backfire ” dominates .
Backfires , which are set by fire fighting teams , burn up fuel from a fire break so that when the wildfire reaches that zone , it has little to burn .
Backfires are now a significant percentage of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. now has a fire fighting strategy that involves making a lot more fire happen — literally “ fighting fire with fire ” .
The given fire ’ s total size , regularly reported by the media , rarely includes an acknowledgment that some of the “ fire ” is actually the “ fire fighting.
” And , the ecological effects of backfires are only starting to be evaluated .
Solution : Since they are two different things , the U.S. government should track and report the difference between “ real ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fires ” ) .
Federal and local authorities should also fund ecological studies of the effects of backfires to better inform forest management over time .
Learn more about how you can protect forests .

What Should We Know About Wildfires in California
As California deals with another series of devastating wildfires, little attention is given to the issues that can make wildfires bigger, faster, and more dangerous to people and our nation’s treasured wildlands. Here's a look at what's behind the occurrence of forest and wildland fires today.
Updated September 10, 2020
As California enters an already historic and devastating wildfire season, little attention has been given to the issues that can make wildfires bigger, faster, and more dangerous to people and our nation’s treasured wildlands. Here’s a look at what’s behind the occurrence of forest and wildland fires today.
This year has already broken records, with the largest wildfire in the state’s history just one of many fires burning simultaneously through more than 2.5 million acres and forcing tens of thousands to evacuate their homes — all during a global pandemic where air quality and the ability to shelter-in-place are of critical importance to COVID-19 outcomes. In 2018, the Camp Fire in Northern California became the most deadly fire in the state’s recorded history. That same year, destructive fires burned in Southern California – the Woolsey and Hill fires engulfed iconic areas of Malibu and West Hills, leaving dozens dead, hundreds missing, and thousands of structures destroyed.
Dramatic media stories tend to highlight what’s currently happening with firefighting efforts, but little attention is spent looking at the vast number of issues that influence wildfire behavior and how they impact people and our nation’s treasured wildlands.
Worse, some politicians and corporations spread misinformation and false solutions when fires burn in an attempt to capitalize on these emergency situations and push an anti-environmental agenda. Trump and his Department of the Interior have long parroted talking points from a logging industry that is trying to gut environmental safeguards and increase taxpayer subsidized logging on public lands.
The following list is not a specific analysis of current or recent events, but rather a wider look at trends impacting the occurrence of both forest and wildland fires today.
Industrial logging has increased fire risk
Despite what the logging industry often says about needing more logging to remove ‘fuel’, study after study has shown us that industrial logging makes communities less safe. By removing large commercially-valuable trees — the very trees which are the most resistant to fire, and which create shade, logging is increasing fires and fire risk. Logging older trees and opening up the forest canopy makes things hotter and drier, and more prone to fire. The sticks and wood left over from logging, called “slash,” often remain behind for years on the ground and can act as kindling.
Industrial logging also requires roads. Many thousands of old, unused logging roads riddle the U.S. National Forests, serving as superhighways for flammable, invasive weeds. In addition, these roads increase accidental and intentional human fires in our forests. The legacy of taxpayer subsidized logging on our public lands and industrial logging on private lands has left us with a mess that will take many generations to fix.
Solution: Refocus the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management away from subsidized industrial logging to jobs focused on ecological restoration and preventative fire safety.
Smokey the Bear was wrong
A “put out every fire” approach to wildland fire management for decades has left us with a fire deficit which can fuel unusually big, hot fires. Many forests in the West have “skipped” fires that naturally would have occurred due to overly-aggressive fire suppression. Ecologically speaking, these forests need to burn, as they have for thousands of years, to sustain a cycle of life, death, and renewal. We need to protect people and property, but extinguishing every wildland fire in a region that needs them to regenerate only, well, backfires over time.
There are a whole host of things fires do for natural forests to keep them healthy, and to fuel the cycle of life, death, and regeneration that sustained forests for thousands of years before Europeans showed up. Heavy-handed fire suppression is strongly supported by the logging industry whose spokespersons now, ironically, call for more aggressive logging to remedy the mistake they helped perpetrate in our forests for decades.
Solution: Prioritize fire-fighting to protect human lives and property; don’t risk the lives of firefighters and waste taxpayer money on fires that are not threats to communities. And leave fire-affected forests alone to allow for natural regeneration — some of the most ecologically important forests in the American West are intact post-fire forests, known as snag forests, that provide vital wildlife habitat and are home to numerous imperiled species, such as Great Gray Owls, California Spotted Owls, and Black-backed Woodpeckers.
Smokey the Bear was (sorta) right
No matter how hot or dry, forests don’t spontaneously burst into flames. An ignition source is needed to get a fire going. In nature, it’s really only lightning strikes that serve as ignitions. And lightning often comes with rain. However, human activity is really good at starting fires in a wide variety of ways, from campfires, cigarette butts, and fireworks to sparks from trailer hitch chains dragging on a road. Urban infrastructure, like power lines, can also start fires, especially when not properly maintained.
These human-caused ignitions often happen at times of year when natural ignitions would rarely occur (such as extreme droughts when lightning storms are relatively rare). Humans are so ‘good’ at starting fires that more than 80 percent of wildland fires in the American West are ignited by human activity.
Solution: Reduce human-caused fire ignitions by closing and removing unneeded logging roads, and continue public education efforts (we can agree on this, Smokey). In addition, Smokey should also bring his message to corporations and governments that are in charge of the high risk infrastructure that oftentimes sparks these fires.
Climate change can make the problems humans have created worse
Though it is impossible to point to any fire and say climate change has single-handedly caused it, there is broad scientific consensus that global warming will bring hotter, drier conditions to the American West, and set the stage for more dramatic fire events, including a longer fire season, an increase in larger fires, and fires that can grow more rapidly. This, combined with decades of unsustainable logging, road-building, and fire suppression could push forests beyond their capacity to deal with fire.
Solution: Conserve natural forests, stop the expansion of fossil fuels, and foster a just transition into renewable energy sources to prevent the worst impacts of the climate crisis.
Development
Part of the skyrocketing cost of wildland fire fighting has resulted from expanded human development into what once was remote, fire-prone landscapes. With more homes and buildings in hot-zones, there is more need for aggressive firefighting when fires do take place. Just as building in a flood-plain or seismically-active area, homes and human infrastructure in fire-prone areas should be built and maintained with fire safety in mind.
Solution: Be smart about development, and be fire-ready. Update municipal codes to require elements proven to safeguard homes (known as home hardening), like vent and chimney screens and fire resistant roofs. Prioritize prescribed burns and mechanical fuel removal in and around communities where it will do the most good. Fund these efforts, and make sure rich and poor alike can live in fire-safe homes. Prevention is worth much more, in terms of human lives, forest health, firefighter safety, and taxpayer dollars than desperate last-ditch fire fighting.
Fire-fighting has changed — and it now involves a lot more burning
Forest fire fighting has evolved over time based on technology, science and, perhaps most dramatically, politics. The U.S. government’s approach to fire once was one of full-on direct attack — an approach that is costly and dangerous. Now, an informal policy known as “back off and backfire” dominates. Backfires, which are set by fire fighting teams, burn up fuel from a fire break so that when the wildfire reaches that zone, it has little to burn. Backfires are now a significant percentage of total fire size. Simply put, the U.S. now has a fire fighting strategy that involves making a lot more fire happen — literally “fighting fire with fire”. The given fire’s total size, regularly reported by the media, rarely includes an acknowledgment that some of the “fire” is actually the “fire fighting.” And, the ecological effects of backfires are only starting to be evaluated.
Solution: Since they are two different things, the U.S. government should track and report the difference between “real” fires and backfires (aka “suppression fires”). Federal and local authorities should also fund ecological studies of the effects of backfires to better inform forest management over time.
Learn more about how you can protect forests.
Originally published on November 16, 2018.


greenpeace--2020-08-19--Occidental Petroleum lobbies for bailouts but leaves behind legacies of pollution

Occidental Petroleum lobbies for bailouts but leaves behind legacies of pollution Occidental Petroleum has been careening towards bankruptcy ever since the pandemic hit—which only shows why we need a managed decline of the industry , not more bailouts .
Occidental Petroleum is on the ropes .
The oil giant has been careening towards bankruptcy ever since the pandemic hit .
Just last week Oxy had to write down $ 6.6 billion in assets—or around 40 % of its market value .
The company that was once the largest operator in Texas ’ s Permian Basin is now down to its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And yet .
The corporate history of the oil giant—just like the oil industry as a whole—is one of avoiding accountability for its failures , lobbying hard for government bailouts , and extracting profits while leaving communities in the lurch .
Already stimulus funds meant to help workers are being used to prop up oil corporations and environmental regulations are being rolled back while families struggle to make ends meet .
Without strong climate action to achieve a managed decline of fossil fuel production , the oil industry will use every trick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ downturn back into booming profits .
You can help put an end to federal subsidies that prop up fossil fuel companies like Occidental .
Ask your Representative to support the End Polluter Welfare Act today .
The Ship Was Already Taking On Water Occidental Petroleum was losing steam even before the pandemic hit .
Oxy took on billions in debt in 2019 to fund its $ 38 billion acquisition of rival Anadarko Petroleum .
When the pandemic slashed oil prices , it became apparent that Oxy might not have the cash to cover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18 , 2020 , Moody ’ s downgraded Occidental ’ s debt rating to “ junk ” status .
Ironically , Oxy had in 2014 previously spun off its California operations into a separate company , California Resources Corporation — a move which many observers wondered was designed “ specifically to offload Occidental ’ s California cleanup liabilities.
” From the start , CRC was saddled with heavy debts , a declining production base , and massive environmental liabilities in the form of thousands of idle and unplugged wells that CRC is legally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great surprise , CRC filed for bankruptcy in July , and industry watchers have wondered whether its parent might soon join it .
Current CEO Vicki Hollub was paid $ 16 million in 2019 ( which includes salary , bonuses , stock options , and more ) — which is 86 times the median employee pay at Occidental .
To weather the storm , Oxy lobbied President Trump and Congressional Republicans for a lifeline .
Hollub was one of the oil CEOs who met with Trump in April to plead for an oil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million in lobbying expenditures in 2019 and another $ 2.9 million so far in 2020 — not including contributions routed through industry groups .
Oxy even organized company employees to send letters to Congress with a “ wish list ” of policies to support .
In the past few years , Hollub has personally contributed to top Republican officials , including : For the 2019-2020 election cycle , Occidental Petroleum has given over $ 1 million in campaign contributions , of which 98 % went to Republicans .
Oxy ’ s wave of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 when the Federal Reserve relaxed its eligibility requirements for its Main Street Lending Program .
The changes closely matched industry requests and appeared to specifically benefit Occidental , although to date , the company does not appear to have received funds from this program .
A similar set of tweaks was proposed for a separate Fed bond purchase program that also seemed tailored to benefit Oxy , although they were not ultimately implemented .
However , Occidental did take advantage of a $ 195 million tax bailout provided by the CARES Act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some tax credits and “ carryback ” net operating losses to cover previous tax bills .
And although the Fed bond purchase program eligibility was not relaxed , the Fed has turned to buying exchange-traded funds ( ETFs ) to bolster bond markets — at least one of which includes holdings of Occidental bonds .
Notably , Oxy and its acquired companies have also received over $ 200 million in subsidies from state governments as well as $ 5 billion in federally backed loans since 2000 .
Occidental has also likely benefited from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules , such as the weakened fuel economy and methane standards .
At least one Oxy subsidiary has benefitted from lowered royalty rates for oil it produces on public land .
Founded in the 1920s , Oxy grew rapidly after being acquired by Armand Hammer and striking oil in Libya in the 1960s .
Hammer was a legendary global tycoon who had directly negotiated with world leaders from Vladimir Lenin to Ronald Reagan .
For decades he typified the sort of globe-trotting capitalist deal maker that Donald Trump tries to playact on TV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and gas business is focused on the Permian Basin , the DJ Basin in Colorado , offshore Gulf of Mexico , as well as projects in Colombia , Oman , United Arab Emirates , Algeria , Ghana and elsewhere .
OxyChem is also a leading player in the petrochemical sector .
In recent years , Occidental has become the top oil producer in the Permian , and according to a Greenpeace analysis , has typically been the # 2 flarer of gas by volume in the region .
The oil and gas business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and over the years the industry has deployed any number of strategies to avoid , deny , or delay accountability — although communities and workers have won victories in many cases .
Oxy is no different .
• In 1968 the Occidental Chemical Corporation acquired Hooker Chemical , the owner of what was to become the most infamous contaminated site in history — Love Canal .
Hooker ’ s dumping of toxic chemicals near Niagara Falls , NY dated back to the 1940s , and in 1978 an environmental emergency was declared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After years of activism from local residents , Oxy ended up settling various lawsuits for hundreds of millions of dollars with local residents , New York state , and the federal government .
• In 1988 the Piper Alpha offshore platform in the North Sea , operated by Occidental , suffered a gas leak and explosion , killing 167 workers .
It remains the most lethal offshore oil disaster in history .
An official inquiry faulted Occidental for “ inadequate maintenance and safety procedures , ” but no criminal charges were ever filed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ late 1990s , Oxy attempted to drill for oil in northeastern Colombia without the consent of the Indigenous U ’ wa people living there .
The U ’ wa pursued legal action , mobilized international support , and took direct action to block highways and occupy drill sites .
The U ’ wa also threatened to commit mass suicide if the project went forward .
In 2002 , Oxy announced it was abandoning the project after its first exploratory well was dry .
• In Peru , a 2007 lawsuit brought by indigenous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oxy had contaminated the Corrientes River basin , including by dumping “ 850,000 barrels per day of toxic oil by-products directly into rivers and streams used by the Achuar for drinking , bathing , washing , and fishing.
” The case was settled in 2015 .
In the video below one of the plaintiffs , Adolfina Garcia , explains the impacts of the alleged contamination on the people .
• One of Occidental ’ s recent acquisitions tells yet another story of polluters using shell corporations to potentially avoid accountability .
The Kerr-McGee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) polluted dozens of sites across the country for decades — including perchlorate contamination in Lake Mead and radioactive uranium mine tailings left on the Navajo Reservation .
Similar to CRC , Kerr-McGee also attempted to avoid responsibility by spinning off those liabilities into a company called Tronox , while holding on to its more valuable assets .
The Justice Department eventually caught up with this apparent dodge and in 2015 reached a massive $ 5.15 billion settlement that allowed funds to be used for cleanup .
• Oxy ’ s chemical division @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ third largest manufacturer of polyvinyl chloride ( PVC ) , one of the most toxic forms of plastic .
In 2006 , it reached a settlement to pay civil penalties and reduce vinyl chloride emissions ; this was part of a broader EPA initiative focusing on the PVC industry but the company had specific state violations in New Jersey .
Oxy claims it is a market leader in chlorine production , which can be extremely hazardous to those exposed when accidentally leaked or spilled .
• In 2008 , a leak of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an Oxy subsidiary , caused the evacuation of more than 2,000 families in Petrolia , PA .
In 2017 , the plant closed down permanently .
• In 2011 , Occidental paid over $ 2 million to the federal government to settle claims that it “ knowingly underpay [ ed ] royalties owed on natural gas produced from federal leases.
” • In 2014 , Occidental settled with the state of New Jersey for $ 190 million dollars over its liability for dioxin dumped into the Passaic River .
Out of Alignment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities , Occidental ’ s historical emissions and investments in future production are fueling the climate crisis .
Occidental ranks as the forty-fourth-most polluting company in history , responsible for 5.89 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from its founding through 2017 .
Like almost all oil and gas majors , Oxy ’ s business model and investments are wildly out of alignment with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5C .
Analysis by Carbon Tracker has found that the vast majority of Occidental ’ s likely capital expenditures in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demand pathways under ambitious climate scenarios .
Shifting this business model to be compliant with the Paris Climate Agreement will “ require a dramatic change in behaviour ” on the part of oil and gas companies .
Unfortunately , rather than taking steps to bring their extractive business model into alignment with climate limits , Oxy has instead positioned itself as an early proponent of enhanced oil recovery ( EOR ) , carbon capture use and sequestration ( CCUS ) , direct air capture ( DAC ) , and other false climate solutions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Managed Phase Out Around the globe , the actions of the oil and gas industry have polluted communities , mostly Black , Brown or low-income .
Occidental Petroleum ’ s long history illustrates the fact that spills , explosions , chronic air and water pollution are inevitable byproducts of their business model .
Similarly , their reckless investments in expanded oil and gas production are fueling the climate crisis .
The industry has shown they are willing to pull every string they can to maximize profits and dodge accountability , from restructuring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gain government subsidies and bailouts .
To break out of this vicious cycle , we need political leaders who will invest in a just and green recovery and ensure a managed decline of the oil and gas industry that puts workers and communities first .
The fossil fuel industry is using today ’ s disruption to entrench and enrich themselves , and they are using sneaky attempts to use this moment of chaos and disorientation to line their pockets .
We can ’ t let them .
Call on your Representative to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Occidental Petroleum lobbies for bailouts but leaves behind legacies of pollution
Occidental Petroleum has been careening towards bankruptcy ever since the pandemic hit—which only shows why we need a managed decline of the industry, not more bailouts.
Occidental Petroleum is on the ropes. The oil giant has been careening towards bankruptcy ever since the pandemic hit. Just last week Oxy had to write down $6.6 billion in assets—or around 40% of its market value. The company that was once the largest operator in Texas’s Permian Basin is now down to its last operating drilling rig in the region.
And yet. The corporate history of the oil giant—just like the oil industry as a whole—is one of avoiding accountability for its failures, lobbying hard for government bailouts, and extracting profits while leaving communities in the lurch. Already stimulus funds meant to help workers are being used to prop up oil corporations and environmental regulations are being rolled back while families struggle to make ends meet.
Without strong climate action to achieve a managed decline of fossil fuel production, the oil industry will use every trick in the book to turn this latest downturn back into booming profits.
You can help put an end to federal subsidies that prop up fossil fuel companies like Occidental. Ask your Representative to support the End Polluter Welfare Act today.
The Ship Was Already Taking On Water
Occidental Petroleum was losing steam even before the pandemic hit. Oxy took on billions in debt in 2019 to fund its $38 billion acquisition of rival Anadarko Petroleum. When the pandemic slashed oil prices, it became apparent that Oxy might not have the cash to cover its coming debt payments. On March 18, 2020, Moody’s downgraded Occidental’s debt rating to “junk” status.
Ironically, Oxy had in 2014 previously spun off its California operations into a separate company, California Resources Corporation — a move which many observers wondered was designed “specifically to offload Occidental’s California cleanup liabilities.” From the start, CRC was saddled with heavy debts, a declining production base, and massive environmental liabilities in the form of thousands of idle and unplugged wells that CRC is legally required to clean up. To no great surprise, CRC filed for bankruptcy in July, and industry watchers have wondered whether its parent might soon join it.
Current CEO Vicki Hollub was paid $16 million in 2019 (which includes salary, bonuses, stock options, and more) — which is 86 times the median employee pay at Occidental.
Vicki Hollub made $16 million last year. If and when she runs $OXY into restructuring, sale, or some other misfortune, she could pick up another $16 million severance package. https://t.co/Bzxie0C6sb — Kelly Mitchell (@kellyemitchell) April 9, 2020
Bailing Out the Sinking Ship
To weather the storm, Oxy lobbied President Trump and Congressional Republicans for a lifeline. Hollub was one of the oil CEOs who met with Trump in April to plead for an oil bailout. The company reported $8.7 million in lobbying expenditures in 2019 and another $2.9 million so far in 2020 — not including contributions routed through industry groups. Oxy even organized company employees to send letters to Congress with a “wish list” of policies to support.
In the past few years, Hollub has personally contributed to top Republican officials, including:
$2,700 to House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA),
$2,800 to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY),
$5,000 to Vice President Mike Pence’s Great America PAC, and
$12,300 to the National Republican Congressional Committee.
For the 2019-2020 election cycle, Occidental Petroleum has given over $1 million in campaign contributions, of which 98% went to Republicans.
Oxy’s wave of lobbying appeared to get results in April 2020 when the Federal Reserve relaxed its eligibility requirements for its Main Street Lending Program. The changes closely matched industry requests and appeared to specifically benefit Occidental, although to date, the company does not appear to have received funds from this program. A similar set of tweaks was proposed for a separate Fed bond purchase program that also seemed tailored to benefit Oxy, although they were not ultimately implemented.
However, Occidental did take advantage of a $195 million tax bailout provided by the CARES Act, which allowed companies to immediately refund some tax credits and “carryback” net operating losses to cover previous tax bills. And although the Fed bond purchase program eligibility was not relaxed, the Fed has turned to buying exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to bolster bond markets — at least one of which includes holdings of Occidental bonds. Notably, Oxy and its acquired companies have also received over $200 million in subsidies from state governments as well as $5 billion in federally backed loans since 2000.
Occidental has also likely benefited from Trump’s aggressive rollback of environmental rules, such as the weakened fuel economy and methane standards. At least one Oxy subsidiary has benefitted from lowered royalty rates for oil it produces on public land.
Trump admin favors oil companies at the expense of Utah communities. Chalk this up as another bailout for $OXY, on top of their $195m CARES Act tax refund, potentially in line for more from the Federal Reserve.
It pays to have friends in high places: https://t.co/EFo91bXDyL https://t.co/QfF2k9pUL2 — Zorka Milin (@ZorkaMilin) May 20, 2020
Legacies of Contamination
Founded in the 1920s, Oxy grew rapidly after being acquired by Armand Hammer and striking oil in Libya in the 1960s. Hammer was a legendary global tycoon who had directly negotiated with world leaders from Vladimir Lenin to Ronald Reagan. For decades he typified the sort of globe-trotting capitalist deal maker that Donald Trump tries to playact on TV.
Currently, Occidental’s oil and gas business is focused on the Permian Basin, the DJ Basin in Colorado, offshore Gulf of Mexico, as well as projects in Colombia, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Algeria, Ghana and elsewhere. OxyChem is also a leading player in the petrochemical sector. In recent years, Occidental has become the top oil producer in the Permian, and according to a Greenpeace analysis, has typically been the #2 flarer of gas by volume in the region.
The oil and gas business is an inherently dirty and dangerous trade, and over the years the industry has deployed any number of strategies to avoid, deny, or delay accountability — although communities and workers have won victories in many cases. Oxy is no different.
In 1968 the Occidental Chemical Corporation acquired Hooker Chemical, the owner of what was to become the most infamous contaminated site in history — Love Canal. Hooker’s dumping of toxic chemicals near Niagara Falls, NY dated back to the 1940s, and in 1978 an environmental emergency was declared and over 200 families were relocated. After years of activism from local residents, Oxy ended up settling various lawsuits for hundreds of millions of dollars with local residents, New York state, and the federal government.
Out of Alignment with Climate Goals
In addition to polluting communities, Occidental’s historical emissions and investments in future production are fueling the climate crisis. Occidental ranks as the forty-fourth-most polluting company in history, responsible for 5.89 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from its founding through 2017.
Like almost all oil and gas majors, Oxy’s business model and investments are wildly out of alignment with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5C. Analysis by Carbon Tracker has found that the vast majority of Occidental’s likely capital expenditures in the coming decade are inconsistent with oil demand pathways under ambitious climate scenarios. Shifting this business model to be compliant with the Paris Climate Agreement will “require a dramatic change in behaviour” on the part of oil and gas companies.
Unfortunately, rather than taking steps to bring their extractive business model into alignment with climate limits, Oxy has instead positioned itself as an early proponent of enhanced oil recovery (EOR), carbon capture use and sequestration (CCUS), direct air capture (DAC), and other false climate solutions.
A Green New Deal … and a Managed Phase Out
Around the globe, the actions of the oil and gas industry have polluted communities, mostly Black, Brown or low-income. Occidental Petroleum’s long history illustrates the fact that spills, explosions, chronic air and water pollution are inevitable byproducts of their business model. Similarly, their reckless investments in expanded oil and gas production are fueling the climate crisis.
The industry has shown they are willing to pull every string they can to maximize profits and dodge accountability, from restructuring to shed liabilities to aggressive lobbying to gain government subsidies and bailouts. To break out of this vicious cycle, we need political leaders who will invest in a just and green recovery and ensure a managed decline of the oil and gas industry that puts workers and communities first.
The fossil fuel industry is using today’s disruption to entrench and enrich themselves, and they are using sneaky attempts to use this moment of chaos and disorientation to line their pockets. We can’t let them. Call on your Representative to support the End Polluter Welfare Act today.


Reusables Are Doable!

After months of the plastic industry exploiting fears about COVID-19 to scare people into buying more single-use plastics , Greenpeace just launched a brand new report to highlight reuse and refill solutions around the world that have continued or can be used safely during the COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring strong sanitization or contactless systems for refill .
After months of the plastic industry exploiting fears about COVID-19 to scare people into buying more single-use plastics , Greenpeace just launched a brand new report , Reusables Are Doable , to highlight reuse and refill solutions around the world that have continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring strong sanitization or contactless systems for refill .
A new wave of innovative reuse and refill systems already exists , and some are seeing growth even amid a pandemic .
Loop is perhaps one of the best known .
The company ships products to customers in reusable packaging and containers that are then returned , cleaned , and refilled , and is expanding throughout the U.S. and into global markets , working with big brands from Kroger to Walgreens , Tesco , Unilever , and Procter & Gamble .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to foodservice operators and retailers , adheres to regulations based on FDA guidelines for sanitization , which ensure the safety of reuse systems for workers and customers .
The Wally Shop , which recently expanded to nationwide operations , and Zero , which also offer grocery delivery with reusable containers .
And then there ’ s to-go reusable models , such as CupClub , which enable customers to borrow a reusable cup , use it , then return it at a dropoff point to be cleaned .
For takeout meals , models like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide meals in reusable containers that customers return for commercial cleaning .
For grocery staples and cleaning products , Chilean-based Algramo uses vending machines and an electric vehicle delivery service that allows people to pay for only the amount of product they need in reusable containers .
Here in the U.S. , Ecopod offers a similar vending machine refill format for personal care and cleaning products .
What are new reuse opportunities ?
Restaurants and the larger foodservice industry have undergone significant changes in response to COVID-19 .
This has often meant businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guise that it is safer , which is fueling the plastic pollution crisis , rather than shifting toward reusables .
But this simply doesn ’ t add up .
130 health experts from 20 countries have outlined how to use reusables safely during the pandemic , and note that single-use plastic is not inherently safer than reusables .
There are already reuse systems that can protect the safety of workers and customers alike that exist worldwide .
Take , for instance , contactless coffee and other contactless systems that prioritize sanitization and social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Sea provides guidance for businesses to safely refill a customer ’ s cup ; in Australia , Plastic Free Places provides guidelines for reusable to-go containers and bags ; and in New Zealand , the Takeaway Throwaways campaign offers examples of contactless systems and vendors employing reuse .
And after prohibiting reusable cups in March , Starbucks recently announced a new contactless coffee program and a return to reusable cups for its locations in Europe , Africa , and the Middle East .
But there ’ s no news if this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global operations .
Check out how contactless coffee works , based on the City to Sea model : How do we transform reuse and refill into good jobs and environmental justice ?
As outrage continues to grow over the dangers of plastic , people have increasingly connected the dots to the fossil fuel industry .
The same companies that are destroying our climate are rapidly expanding petrochemical facilities to increase profits from single-use plastics and exploiting low-income and Black and Brown communities .
It is time to stop treating people and the planet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ensure healthy communities for everyone , we must end our reliance on cheap throwaway plastics .
As innovations in reuse and refill continue , workers must be part of the equation .
Reusable systems must invest in local economies , creating good union jobs in several sectors ( e.g.
, manufacturing , distribution , retail , foodservice , food delivery ) .
Workers responsible for the production , preparation , and distribution of the food and products used everyday deserve better , and should feel safe and be protected Premium wages , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see UFCW , Teamsters , UNITE HERE ) , universal paid sick leave and family and medical leave , hazard pay , childcare , and protections for collective bargaining agreements are some of the benefits each of these workers needs immediately .
In addition to necessary changes within their own companies , business leaders must support efforts in Congress for an Essential Worker Bill of Rights .
We can work together to invest in technologies and systems that provide good union jobs , protect our planet , and provide customers and communities with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ embracing change , transforming existing systems , and time and investment .
But if nothing else , 2020 has shown so far that in moments of challenge and uncertainty , marked changes are possible and are becoming inevitable .
And to ensure our society doesn ’ t return to the status-quo of single-use plastics , large corporations must lead the way by investing in an economy built on these sustainable , reusable systems .
Together let ’ s turn research into action by calling out corporations , like Starbucks , to stop falling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set a precedent for other major corporations by investing in safe , reusable systems .
Add your name today to demand Starbucks do better by investing in plastic-free , reusable systems that are safe for people and planet !
All examples provided in this blog are for the purpose of illustrating the type of changes needed in retail , foodservice , and consumer goods worldwide .
Greenpeace USA does not endorse any of the products , brands , or companies listed in this blog .

Reusables Are Doable!
After months of the plastic industry exploiting fears about COVID-19 to scare people into buying more single-use plastics, Greenpeace just launched a brand new report to highlight reuse and refill solutions around the world that have continued or can be used safely during the COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring strong sanitization or contactless systems for refill.
After months of the plastic industry exploiting fears about COVID-19 to scare people into buying more single-use plastics, Greenpeace just launched a brand new report, Reusables Are Doable, to highlight reuse and refill solutions around the world that have continued or can be used safely during the COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring strong sanitization or contactless systems for refill.
READ REPORT!
What already exists?
A new wave of innovative reuse and refill systems already exists, and some are seeing growth even amid a pandemic.
Loop is perhaps one of the best known. The company ships products to customers in reusable packaging and containers that are then returned, cleaned, and refilled, and is expanding throughout the U.S. and into global markets, working with big brands from Kroger to Walgreens, Tesco, Unilever, and Procter & Gamble. Loop, like other third-party reuse businesses to foodservice operators and retailers, adheres to regulations based on FDA guidelines for sanitization, which ensure the safety of reuse systems for workers and customers.
The Wally Shop, which recently expanded to nationwide operations, and Zero, which also offer grocery delivery with reusable containers. And then there’s to-go reusable models, such as CupClub, which enable customers to borrow a reusable cup, use it, then return it at a dropoff point to be cleaned. For takeout meals, models like Dispatch Goods partner with local restaurants to provide meals in reusable containers that customers return for commercial cleaning. For grocery staples and cleaning products, Chilean-based Algramo uses vending machines and an electric vehicle delivery service that allows people to pay for only the amount of product they need in reusable containers. Here in the U.S., Ecopod offers a similar vending machine refill format for personal care and cleaning products.
What are new reuse opportunities?
Restaurants and the larger foodservice industry have undergone significant changes in response to COVID-19. This has often meant businesses are opting for disposable packaging under the guise that it is safer, which is fueling the plastic pollution crisis, rather than shifting toward reusables. But this simply doesn’t add up. 130 health experts from 20 countries have outlined how to use reusables safely during the pandemic, and note that single-use plastic is not inherently safer than reusables.
There are already reuse systems that can protect the safety of workers and customers alike that exist worldwide. Take, for instance, contactless coffee and other contactless systems that prioritize sanitization and social distancing. In the UK, City to Sea provides guidance for businesses to safely refill a customer’s cup; in Australia, Plastic Free Places provides guidelines for reusable to-go containers and bags; and in New Zealand, the Takeaway Throwaways campaign offers examples of contactless systems and vendors employing reuse. And after prohibiting reusable cups in March, Starbucks recently announced a new contactless coffee program and a return to reusable cups for its locations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. But there’s no news if this is coming to the U.S. or its other global operations.
Check out how contactless coffee works, based on the City to Sea model:
How do we transform reuse and refill into good jobs and environmental justice?
As outrage continues to grow over the dangers of plastic, people have increasingly connected the dots to the fossil fuel industry. The same companies that are destroying our climate are rapidly expanding petrochemical facilities to increase profits from single-use plastics and exploiting low-income and Black and Brown communities. It is time to stop treating people and the planet as disposable. To save our climate and ensure healthy communities for everyone, we must end our reliance on cheap throwaway plastics.
As innovations in reuse and refill continue, workers must be part of the equation. Reusable systems must invest in local economies, creating good union jobs in several sectors (e.g., manufacturing, distribution, retail, foodservice, food delivery). Workers responsible for the production, preparation, and distribution of the food and products used everyday deserve better, and should feel safe and be protected
Premium wages, health and safety protections (e.g., see UFCW, Teamsters, UNITE HERE), universal paid sick leave and family and medical leave, hazard pay, childcare, and protections for collective bargaining agreements are some of the benefits each of these workers needs immediately. In addition to necessary changes within their own companies, business leaders must support efforts in Congress for an Essential Worker Bill of Rights.
We can work together to invest in technologies and systems that provide good union jobs, protect our planet, and provide customers and communities with the services they need. It requires embracing change, transforming existing systems, and time and investment. But if nothing else, 2020 has shown so far that in moments of challenge and uncertainty, marked changes are possible and are becoming inevitable.
And to ensure our society doesn’t return to the status-quo of single-use plastics, large corporations must lead the way by investing in an economy built on these sustainable, reusable systems.
Together let’s turn research into action by calling out corporations, like Starbucks, to stop falling short of their commitments and to instead set a precedent for other major corporations by investing in safe, reusable systems.
Add your name today to demand Starbucks do better by investing in plastic-free, reusable systems that are safe for people and planet!
SIGN NOW!
All examples provided in this blog are for the purpose of illustrating the type of changes needed in retail, foodservice, and consumer goods worldwide. Greenpeace USA does not endorse any of the products, brands, or companies listed in this blog.


greenpeace--2020-08-27--California Wildfires: Intersecting Crises & How to Respond

As wildfires rage across the state of California amid a global pandemic and record-breaking heatwaves , here 's how to respond to these intersecting crises .
As wildfires rage across the state of California , my thoughts are with the thousands of Californians who have been evacuated and whose homes and businesses are in the fire ’ s path .
In 2018 , my family and neighbors were evacuated from the Carr Fire , which left many of us without homes .
I remember how overwhelming it was to make safe evacuation plans then , but it ’ s hard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the additional thread of the COVID-19 pandemic .
This year has already become one of the most active fire seasons ever , with two of the three largest fires in the state ’ s history burning simultaneously .
As I ’ m writing this now , 7,012 fires have burned through 1.5 million acres – that ’ s roughly double the size of Rhode Island .
So far , evacuations have impacted more than 100,000 Californians .
These wildfires and evacuations are playing out during a global pandemic , record-breaking heat waves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many simultaneous crises , knowing how to respond and stay safe feels overwhelming to say the least .
As we respond , it ’ s also important to consider the ways these issues intersect , the root issues making the situation worse , and which communities will be most impacted .
This blog post is meant to explore those connections and also provide you with information and resources to help you stay safe and take care of those around you .
First off , as Governor Newsom himself has called out , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ climate crisis is fueling extreme weather events , including an exceptionally dry winter and record-breaking heat waves which leave more dried up wildland vegetation to kindle the fires .
What we ’ re seeing in California now is the unfortunate reality that we don ’ t have the luxury to tackle one crisis at a time .
While climate change is fueling wildfires , the wildfires are in turn worsening air quality and increasing the public health risks for communities at greatest risk of COVID-19 .
Meanwhile , the pandemic is complicating the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fires and safely evacuate Californians in the path of these fires .
Plus , extreme weather events often come with their own unanticipated side effects , as we saw when as many as 2 million Californians lost power during a record-breaking heatwave this month .
These blackouts are doubly dangerous during a heatwave and a pandemic , when access to electricity can be a life-or-death situation for the sick , elderly , and those who rely on medical equipment .
The Bay Area ’ s daily air quality has repeatedly reached the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a result of fires and smoke blowing across the region .
Wildfire smoke contains large amounts of soot and other fine particles that can aggravate asthma and other respiratory problems , and has been shown to increase the risk of lung infections like pneumonia .
Exposure to wildfire smoke is associated with : respiratory illnesses ; adverse birth outcomes ; cardiovascular disease ; and premature mortality .
During the COVID-19 pandemic , which poses greater risks to communities with air pollution , unhealthy air is a serious public health emergency .
Deadly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from these fires that threaten children , elderly populations , pregnant women , socioeconomically disadvantaged populations , outdoor workers , people experiencing homelessness , and those with compromised immune systems and preexisting respiratory and cardiovascular conditions .
As we deal with a public health crisis centered around a respiratory disease , the last thing we need is more pollution that worsens respiratory problems and deepens already disproportionately higher risks of COVID-19 for Black , Brown , Indigenous , and low-income communities .
Municipalities need to focus on providing masks , safe and socially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health responses to enable communitie What ’ s driving the climate crisis and further endangering public health ?
Fossil Fuels .
While we must address the immediate needs of evacuating people safely and protecting sensitive groups from air pollution , we can not afford to ignore a root-level problem that is fueling climate chaos , and thus these extreme weather events , as well as further jeopardizing public health during a pandemic and on top of hazardous wildfire smoke .
Fossil fuel extraction is simultaneously driving our climate crisis – which is making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – and worsening public health risks for communities living near oil and gas drilling .
For decades , these communities have faced their own public health crisis – suffering higher rates of asthma and other respiratory diseases , preterm births and high-risk pregnancies , and cancer – which now put them at greater risk to COVID-19 .
And as COVID-19 has laid bare , this public health crisis exposes deeper societal and environmental racism .
Of the 1.8 million Californians living near drilling in heavily polluted areas , 92 percent are communities of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news that the fossil industry is the main driver of the climate crisis , California remains one of the top oil-producing states in the country .
What ’ s truly cynical is that while Governor Newsom has been quick to connect the dots between these wildfires and climate change , he ’ s failed to mention the 1,500 new oil and gas permits he ’ s issued this year , and the 48 new fracking permits issued since the pandemic hit California in March .
As California experiences record-breaking heatwaves and devastating wildfires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our leaders just to believe in climate science : we need them to act on it .
That means making changes now to move away from fossil fuels that further endanger public health and hasten climate disruption , and instead invest in a new , just , safe , and equitable energy system that includes a just transition for communities most impacted by the fossil fuel industry .
Want to learn more about other root issues behind the climate crisis and California ’ s wildfires , including how the logging industry is making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blog post , What Should We Know About Wildfires in California .
We Can ’ t Afford to Address One Crisis at a Time The main takeaway from examining these multiple intersecting crises is that the climate crisis , racial injustice , and public health are interlinking issues and we can not afford to address one crisis at a time .
For example , when PG & E and other utilities cut off power to millions of Californians , Newsom ’ s response was to use back-up diesel generators to avoid future blackouts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ air pollution rules during a pandemic and wildfires , thus deepening air pollution that disproportionately impacts Black , Brown , Indigenous , and low-income communities .
For too long , California ’ s elected leaders have answered to destructive industries that put profits over people .
If we continue to allow the fossil fuel and logging industries to dictate the way land is used , shape our policies , and mold our emergency response , they ’ ll continue to fuel the climate crisis , air pollution , and destructive wildfires .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and prepares for tomorrow ’ s challenges , he must chart a path to a more just , resilient , and sustainable energy future for California , rather than continuing to invest in the problems that are causing these crises .
That starts with standing up to the destructive industries that are fueling these wildfires .
Tell Governor Newsom to stop permitting the climate crisis & exacerbating air pollution for frontline communities .
While getting real about the root issues is urgently important , millions of Californians are being forced to deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We ’ ve compiled this guide to help you respond to these intersecting crises in order to stay safe and mitigate their impacts on you , your loved ones , and your community .
You can download it here or share the tips below .
Do you have resources for responding to these crises or know of wildfire relief efforts in your community ?
Please share below in the comments !
Here ’ s how you can stay safe : 😷 If you smell smoke , stay indoors & close the windows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filter , or make your own : https : //bit.ly/3l4Ph6m 😷 Wear a mask outdoors ( see our n95 guidance here : https : //bit.ly/2YDkmnN ) Here ’ s how you can prepare if you ’ re in a wildfire-prone area : Here ’ s what you can do to prepare for blackouts : 💡 Sign up for alerts from your local utility : https : //bit.ly/31ttcq2 💡 Get a back-up charger for your phone 💡 Check out these tips for staying cool & conserving power 😰 https : //lat.ms/3iWXJCK

California Wildfires: Intersecting Crises & How to Respond
As wildfires rage across the state of California amid a global pandemic and record-breaking heatwaves, here's how to respond to these intersecting crises.
Updated September 10, 2020
As wildfires rage across the state of California, my thoughts are with the thousands of Californians who have been evacuated and whose homes and businesses are in the fire’s path.
In 2018, my family and neighbors were evacuated from the Carr Fire, which left many of us without homes. I remember how overwhelming it was to make safe evacuation plans then, but it’s hard to imagine navigating that already difficult task with the additional thread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year, we’re experiencing what has become the largest wildfire in California history and three of the four largest fires in the state’s history burning simultaneously. As I’m writing this now, 7,694 fires have burned through a record-breaking 3 million acres – that’s the most acreage burned in a single wildfire season in California. So far, evacuations have impacted more than 100,000 Californians. These wildfires and evacuations are playing out during a global pandemic, record-breaking heat waves, and power blackouts.
With so many simultaneous crises, knowing how to respond and stay safe feels overwhelming to say the least. As we respond, it’s also important to consider the ways these issues intersect, the root issues making the situation worse, and which communities will be most impacted. This blog post is meant to explore those connections and also provide you with information and resources to help you stay safe and take care of those around you.
Part 1: Intersecting Crises
Climate Chaos
First off, as Governor Newsom himself has called out, we have to acknowledge the ways that the climate crisis is fueling extreme weather events, including an exceptionally dry winter and record-breaking heat waves which leave more dried up wildland vegetation to kindle the fires.
What we’re seeing in California now is the unfortunate reality that we don’t have the luxury to tackle one crisis at a time. While climate change is fueling wildfires, the wildfires are in turn worsening air quality and increasing the public health risks for communities at greatest risk of COVID-19. Meanwhile, the pandemic is complicating the state’s ability to respond to the fires and safely evacuate Californians in the path of these fires.
Plus, extreme weather events often come with their own unanticipated side effects, as we saw when as many as 2 million Californians lost power during a record-breaking heatwave this month. These blackouts are doubly dangerous during a heatwave and a pandemic, when access to electricity can be a life-or-death situation for the sick, elderly, and those who rely on medical equipment.
Public Health Emergency
The Bay Area’s daily air quality has repeatedly reached the “worst in the world” status as a result of fires and smoke blowing across the region.
Wildfire smoke contains large amounts of soot and other fine particles that can aggravate asthma and other respiratory problems, and has been shown to increase the risk of lung infections like pneumonia. Exposure to wildfire smoke is associated with: respiratory illnesses; adverse birth outcomes; cardiovascular disease; and premature mortality. During the COVID-19 pandemic, which poses greater risks to communities with air pollution, unhealthy air is a serious public health emergency.
Deadly air pollutants are exacerbated by dangerous smoke from these fires that threaten children, elderly populations, pregnant women, socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, outdoor workers, people experiencing homelessness, and those with compromised immune systems and preexisting respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
As we deal with a public health crisis centered around a respiratory disease, the last thing we need is more pollution that worsens respiratory problems and deepens already disproportionately higher risks of COVID-19 for Black, Brown, Indigenous, and low-income communities.
Municipalities need to focus on providing masks, safe and socially distanced smoke shelters, and other public health responses to enable communitie
What’s driving the climate crisis and further endangering public health? Fossil Fuels.
While we must address the immediate needs of evacuating people safely and protecting sensitive groups from air pollution, we cannot afford to ignore a root-level problem that is fueling climate chaos, and thus these extreme weather events, as well as further jeopardizing public health during a pandemic and on top of hazardous wildfire smoke.
Fossil fuel extraction is simultaneously driving our climate crisis – which is making California’s wildfires bigger and faster – and worsening public health risks for communities living near oil and gas drilling.
For decades, these communities have faced their own public health crisis – suffering higher rates of asthma and other respiratory diseases, preterm births and high-risk pregnancies, and cancer – which now put them at greater risk to COVID-19. And as COVID-19 has laid bare, this public health crisis exposes deeper societal and environmental racism. Of the 1.8 million Californians living near drilling in heavily polluted areas, 92 percent are communities of color.
While it isn’t news that the fossil industry is the main driver of the climate crisis, California remains one of the top oil-producing states in the country. What’s truly cynical is that while Governor Newsom has been quick to connect the dots between these wildfires and climate change, he’s failed to mention the 1,500 new oil and gas permits he’s issued this year, and the 48 new fracking permits issued since the pandemic hit California in March. In fact, in the first six months of 2020 alone, Governor Newsom has granted 190% more permits to drill new oil and gas wells compared to the same period last year.
As California experiences record-breaking heatwaves and devastating wildfires, it’s not enough for our leaders just to believe in climate science: we need them to act on it. That means making changes now to move away from fossil fuels that further endanger public health and hasten climate disruption, and instead invest in a new, just, safe, and equitable energy system that includes a just transition for communities most impacted by the fossil fuel industry.
Want to learn more about other root issues behind the climate crisis and California’s wildfires, including how the logging industry is making communities less safe? Check out this blog post, What Should We Know About Wildfires in California.
We Can’t Afford to Address One Crisis at a Time
The main takeaway from examining these multiple intersecting crises is that the climate crisis, racial injustice, and public health are interlinking issues and we cannot afford to address one crisis at a time.
For example, when PG&E and other utilities cut off power to millions of Californians, Newsom’s response was to use back-up diesel generators to avoid future blackouts, which required him to roll back air pollution rules during a pandemic and wildfires, thus deepening air pollution that disproportionately impacts Black, Brown, Indigenous, and low-income communities.
For too long, California’s elected leaders have answered to destructive industries that put profits over people. If we continue to allow the fossil fuel and logging industries to dictate the way land is used, shape our policies, and mold our emergency response, they’ll continue to fuel the climate crisis, air pollution, and destructive wildfires.
As Governor Newsom responds to the current crisis and prepares for tomorrow’s challenges, he must chart a path to a more just, resilient, and sustainable energy future for California, rather than continuing to invest in the problems that are causing these crises. That starts with standing up to the destructive industries that are fueling these wildfires.
Tell Governor Newsom to stop permitting the climate crisis & exacerbating air pollution for frontline communities.
Part 2: How to Respond
While getting real about the root issues is urgently important, millions of Californians are being forced to deal with the immediate task of safety and survival. We’ve compiled this guide to help you respond to these intersecting crises in order to stay safe and mitigate their impacts on you, your loved ones, and your community. You can download it here or share the tips below.
Do you have resources for responding to these crises or know of wildfire relief efforts in your community? Please share below in the comments!
Quick Tips
Here’s how you can stay safe:
😷 Monitor local air quality: https://bit.ly/3iXA70F
😷 If you smell smoke, stay indoors & close the windows.
😷 Get an HVAC or HEPA filter, or make your own: https://bit.ly/3l4Ph6m
😷 Wear a mask outdoors (see our n95 guidance here: https://bit.ly/2YDkmnN)
Tweet this
Here’s how you can prepare if you’re in a wildfire-prone area:
🧯Prepare your Emergency Supply Kit: https://bit.ly/2Yj6z5M
🧯Sign up for @Cal_Fire active wildfire updates: https://bit.ly/2FGlMaD
🧯Have a Wildfire Action Plan (& plan w COVID in mind): https://bit.ly/2EkOL2S
Tweet this
Here’s what you can do to prepare for blackouts:
💡 Sign up for alerts from your local utility: https://bit.ly/31ttcq2
💡 Get a back-up charger for your phone
💡 Don’t forget that emergency supply kit! 🧰
💡 Check out these tips for staying cool & conserving power 😰 https://lat.ms/3iWXJCK
Tweet this


greenpeace--2020-08-27--Stop the War on Black Lives

Stop the War on Black Lives

We need to dismantle the systems that exploit people and planet , and a core part of that is the fight for justice every single day .
We are in a crisis .
The brutal police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor , the murder of Ahmaud Arbery , the shooting of Jacob Blake , the slaying of Trayford Pelleri—and the militarized police escalation across the country show us once again that people in this country are not free .
Our response must be urgent and meaningful .
Many of you reading this right now may have been involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years , but I also know some folks may be wondering why Greenpeace , the “ save the whales ” group is speaking up to say Black Lives Matter .
At the root of all of the work that we as a community do—whether it ’ s for the environment , whether it ’ s for democracy , whether it ’ s to change a racist system where Black folks are targeted for violence—the unifying thread is this : we must dismantle the systems that exploit people and planet , and a core @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justice every single day .
We simply can never create a green and peaceful future if systems of white supremacy , colonialism , and privilege continue to destroy the environment and strip Black communities of their dignity—and too often , their lives .
Since 2015 , police have shot and killed roughly twice as many Black people as white people , despite the fact that there are about six times more white people than Black people in the United States.1 Black people are 2.5 times more likely than white to be killed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , children , and neighborhoods lose members of their family far too frequently .
This violence and murder needs to stop .
These are people ’ s lives — not just numbers .
The country is in outrage , and so am I .
We need to demand justice and support the fight now .
Not just today , which is especially important , but next week , next month , after the next election , after the cameras and news crews have left .
The sad truth is that police kill or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every day , not just those times when it is caught on camera and is covered in the news .
In all of 2019 , there were only 27 days where police did not kill someone.2 We must be unified as a movement for justice—racial justice , environmental justice , economic justice , social justice—everywhere , for as long as it takes .
As a white person who strives to be an ally to the Movement for Black Lives , I know that I can ’ t look away , that I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well , it takes all of us .
If you are like me and my family , you may be wondering how to help in this crisis .
Taking leadership from Black-led activists , here are a few ways to channel your feelings of grief and outrage into action .
• None Join the week of action for Black lives • None Donate to Support Bail Funds for Protesters of Police Violence • None Donate to Organizations Fighting Against Racism and Police Brutality • None Sign this petition by the Movement For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Take action with Color of Change • None Read and share the resources in our anti-racism toolkit Taking action , donating , and supporting this movement today shouldn ’ t be the end of our activism—it should be the start .
The resources here are national , and in your community , there are likely local groups working to address police violence , to steer your tax dollars into critical services instead of militarizing the police , to reform your community government .
Local officials understand that even a few hundred votes can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and they need to hear from us now .
I encourage us all to take time to do our own research on how to support Black organizers and community members in our city or town .
Then let our elected officials know what we want to end violent policing and prioritize programs and policies that make our communities more safe , more inclusive , and more just .
In the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic crisis , it is Black and Brown people who are disproportionately affected .
It is Essential Workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ color , who are risking their lives providing the essential services that we all rely on .
Essential Workers deserve protection , but instead of PPE and government support , they ’ re being pushed aside while powerful corporations loot millions in taxpayer dollars and the Senate stalls on further relief .
From higher asthma rates due to fossil fuel companies polluting Black communities to unjust laws that allow police and vigilantes to walk free after brutally killing innocent people in the street , the need for justice has never been more clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time for solidarity , for action , with our brothers , sisters , and siblings in the Black community is now .

Stop the War on Black Lives
We need to dismantle the systems that exploit people and planet, and a core part of that is the fight for justice every single day.
Greenpeace US activists walk a large Black Lives Matter banner down 16th NW toward the White House. Activists on the streets adopted the banner chanting "Make Way For The Flag" as they moved it through the massive crowds to the fence in front of Lafayette Square near the White House. On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. During an arrest, Derek Chauvin, a white American police officer, kept his knee on the side of Floyd's neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down. During the last three minutes, Floyd was motionless. After Floyd's death, demonstrations and protests against racism and police brutality were held across the US and the world, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the movement and gathering restrictions put in place by governments to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
We are in a crisis. The brutal police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, the murder of Ahmaud Arbery, the shooting of Jacob Blake, the slaying of Trayford Pelleri—and the militarized police escalation across the country show us once again that people in this country are not free. Our response must be urgent and meaningful.
Many of you reading this right now may have been involved in the struggle for racial justice for years, but I also know some folks may be wondering why Greenpeace, the “save the whales” group is speaking up to say Black Lives Matter.
At the root of all of the work that we as a community do—whether it’s for the environment, whether it’s for democracy, whether it’s to change a racist system where Black folks are targeted for violence—the unifying thread is this: we must dismantle the systems that exploit people and planet, and a core part of that is the fight for justice every single day. We simply can never create a green and peaceful future if systems of white supremacy, colonialism, and privilege continue to destroy the environment and strip Black communities of their dignity—and too often, their lives.
We all know that Black and Brown communities disproportionately suffer health impacts from pollution, which is why demanding Environmental Justice has long been a core principle in all our environmental work. But we need to do more.
Since 2015, police have shot and killed roughly twice as many Black people as white people, despite the fact that there are about six times more white people than Black people in the United States.1 Black people are 2.5 times more likely than white to be killed by the police. Black parents, spouses, children, and neighborhoods lose members of their family far too frequently. This violence and murder needs to stop. These are people’s lives — not just numbers. The country is in outrage, and so am I.
We need to demand justice and support the fight now. Not just today, which is especially important, but next week, next month, after the next election, after the cameras and news crews have left. The sad truth is that police kill or commit violence against unarmed Black men almost every day, not just those times when it is caught on camera and is covered in the news. In all of 2019, there were only 27 days where police did not kill someone.2 We must be unified as a movement for justice—racial justice, environmental justice, economic justice, social justice—everywhere, for as long as it takes.
As a white person who strives to be an ally to the Movement for Black Lives, I know that I can’t look away, that I have to engage. I hope you will as well, it takes all of us. If you are like me and my family, you may be wondering how to help in this crisis. Taking leadership from Black-led activists, here are a few ways to channel your feelings of grief and outrage into action.
Taking action, donating, and supporting this movement today shouldn’t be the end of our activism—it should be the start. The resources here are national, and in your community, there are likely local groups working to address police violence, to steer your tax dollars into critical services instead of militarizing the police, to reform your community government. Local officials understand that even a few hundred votes can turn an election for or against them, and they need to hear from us now. I encourage us all to take time to do our own research on how to support Black organizers and community members in our city or town. Then let our elected officials know what we want to end violent policing and prioritize programs and policies that make our communities more safe, more inclusive, and more just.
In the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic crisis, it is Black and Brown people who are disproportionately affected. It is Essential Workers, many of whom are people of color, who are risking their lives providing the essential services that we all rely on. Essential Workers deserve protection, but instead of PPE and government support, they’re being pushed aside while powerful corporations loot millions in taxpayer dollars and the Senate stalls on further relief.
From higher asthma rates due to fossil fuel companies polluting Black communities to unjust laws that allow police and vigilantes to walk free after brutally killing innocent people in the street, the need for justice has never been more clear, pressing, or urgent.
The time for solidarity, for action, with our brothers, sisters, and siblings in the Black community is now.
No justice, no peace. #BlackLivesMatter
Annie Leonard
Executive Director, Greenpeace USA
[1] https://www.washingtonpost. com/opinions/2020/05/29/heres- why-we-dont-see-protests-when- police-unjustly-kill-white- people/
[2] https:// mappingpoliceviolence.org/
Originally published June 11, 2020.


greenpeace--2020-08-26--The planet on fire, in photos

The planet on fire, in photos

The planet on fire , in photos It 's fire season again in many regions around the world—and fire seasons are getting longer and more intense each year .
Rising temperatures from our climate crisis dry out forests and make fires more likely .
In many regions around the world , it ’ s that time of year again – fire season .
But fire seasons are getting longer and more intense each year .
Rising temperatures from our climate crisis dry out forests and other natural areas and make fires more likely .
In addition to the dire implications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are more personal impacts .
People are losing their lives , their homes , their belongings , their livelihoods .
Wildlife is being killed off , and the forests that we all depend on are being wiped out .
This year , with the additional risk of COVID-19 , people will face even higher health risk , as fires intensify and air pollution increases .
This year ’ s fires , similar to years past , come from different causes .
In Brazil , the fires are no accident .
They are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grabbers to expand the land used for cattle ranching and industrial agriculture production , and are part of a practice that is made even worse by Bolsonaro ’ s anti-environmental agenda .
Indigenous Peoples are most at risk , as their homes , livelihoods and health are threatened by the fires .
Argentina ’ s Paraná Delta is also on fire , threatening a vital ecosystem that is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals and helps regulate the climate .
Like Brazil , these fires are mainly caused by farmers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the fires have been made worse by the strongest drought in 70 years and lack of rainfall .
We are also seeing the state of California in the United States go up in flames , forcing hundreds of thousands to evacuate and leaving the state with the worst air quality in the world .
This wave of wildfires — sparked by a historic heatwave and lightning — includes blazes that already rank among the largest in state history .
Smoke from the fires is spreading across the western US and the Pacific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fires are worsened by one crisis facing the region and worsening another : • Climate change is exacerbating the conditions that make fires more catastrophic .
Hotter and drier circumstances are extending the wildfire season and fueling fires .
• As COVID-19 cases continue to surge in California , the fires are worsening air quality and further endangering those Black , Brown , and Indigenous communities already at greatest risk from the pandemic .
Meanwhile , the pandemic is complicating plans to fight the fires and evacuate impacted people .
In Siberia , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waves , oil spills caused by thawing permafrost , and raging forest fires .
According to satellite monitoring data , the total area burnt by fires in Russia since the beginning of 2020 has overcome 22 million hectares .
More than 14 million hectares of these territories suffered forest fires .
Most of these fires are not being fought .
Russian authorities have a legal consent not to do it as the economic consequences do not outweigh the resources needed to fight those fires .
In all these countries , local leaders must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect the forests and their people , and as a global community , we must work together to find solutions to end the climate crisis .

The planet on fire, in photos
It's fire season again in many regions around the world—and fire seasons are getting longer and more intense each year. Rising temperatures from our climate crisis dry out forests and make fires more likely.
In many regions around the world, it’s that time of year again – fire season. But fire seasons are getting longer and more intense each year. Rising temperatures from our climate crisis dry out forests and other natural areas and make fires more likely.
In addition to the dire implications for our planet as a whole, there are more personal impacts. People are losing their lives, their homes, their belongings, their livelihoods. Wildlife is being killed off, and the forests that we all depend on are being wiped out. This year, with the additional risk of COVID-19, people will face even higher health risk, as fires intensify and air pollution increases.
This year’s fires, similar to years past, come from different causes. In Brazil, the fires are no accident. They are being deliberately set by farmers and land grabbers to expand the land used for cattle ranching and industrial agriculture production, and are part of a practice that is made even worse by Bolsonaro’s anti-environmental agenda. Indigenous Peoples are most at risk, as their homes, livelihoods and health are threatened by the fires.
Argentina’s Paraná Delta is also on fire, threatening a vital ecosystem that is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals and helps regulate the climate. Like Brazil, these fires are mainly caused by farmers clearing the land for agriculture. However, the fires have been made worse by the strongest drought in 70 years and lack of rainfall.
We are also seeing the state of California in the United States go up in flames, forcing hundreds of thousands to evacuate and leaving the state with the worst air quality in the world.
This wave of wildfires — sparked by a historic heatwave and lightning — includes blazes that already rank among the largest in state history. Smoke from the fires is spreading across the western US and the Pacific Ocean.
In 2020, the California fires are worsened by one crisis facing the region and worsening another:
In Siberia, this summer has already brought extreme heat waves, oil spills caused by thawing permafrost, and raging forest fires. According to satellite monitoring data, the total area burnt by fires in Russia since the beginning of 2020 has overcome 22 million hectares. More than 14 million hectares of these territories suffered forest fires. Most of these fires are not being fought. Russian authorities have a legal consent not to do it as the economic consequences do not outweigh the resources needed to fight those fires.
In all these countries, local leaders must stand up and take bold action to protect the forests and their people, and as a global community, we must work together to find solutions to end the climate crisis.


greenpeace--2020-08-26--Big data is no magic fix to commodity-driven deforestation

Unilever recently announced it will use phone tracking data to monitor its palm oil supply chains .
This is a false solution .
This type of geo-location technology , which uses cell phone location data , is not going to put an end to deforestation nor the forms of exploitation tied to the agricultural commodities trade .
Big data-driven processes do not address the core problems of production that are intrinsically tied to forest destruction , land theft , corruption and human rights abuses .
This is yet another example of corporations using private sector , voluntary measures to obscure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to climate and biodiversity catastrophes .
Palm oil production remains a leading driver of deforestation along with all of its human rights , climate , and ecological impacts .
The only thing to reverse the negative impacts of commodities trading , including the palm oil trade , is for companies like Unilever to stop buying raw materials that come from draining peatlands , setting a blaze and bulldozing forests .
Fires are intentionally started to clear land for palm oil and pulp & paper plantations .
They release a massive amount of greenhouse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry .
Greenpeace International calculated that between 2015 and 2018 , emissions from peatland fires attributed to the plantation sector amounted to 427 megatonnes of CO2 , a total equivalent to the average annual emissions of 110 coal-fired power plants or 91 million cars .
According to UNICEF , in 2019 , Indonesia ’ s annual fire crisis exposes 10 million children across the region to deadly air pollution .
In 2019 , alone,1.6 million hectares of tropical forest and carbon-rich peatlands in Indonesia burned , in many cases to make way for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , linked to the global market and companies such as Unilever .
Over the last two decades , the palm oil sector has driven the deforestation of millions of hectares of forests , habitats and peatlands across Indonesia , Malaysia , Africa and South America .
As numerous reports from Greenpeace and other NGOs show , major producer groups within Indonesia supplying the global trade continue to be linked to deforestation , fire and human rights abuses .
Real transparency for any company sourcing commodities such as beef , palm oil , soya @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of trade that suppliers make publicly available full information on both their land holdings and origins of the commodities they supply .
Living up to zero deforestation commitments and the global climate and biodiversity crisis means that companies must only buy commodities from supply chain actors that they prove – through public accountability platforms – are clean , even if this means reducing the volumes bought .
Using data from phone signals on movements to track where commodities are coming from introduces critical questions about the shortcomings of how this type of technology @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data will inform Unilever ’ s decision making and ensure transparency and traceability in its supply chains remains unclear to its consumers and other stakeholders .
The company has proven it can not follow through with its commitments to end deforestation and its palm oil supply chain remains connected to fires , peat and land clearing .
Earlier this year Unilever admitted it would fail to meet its 2020 deforestation commitments and has now moved the target to 2023 .
All over the world , we are seeing that the impacts of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Unilever are directly connected .
By continuing to do business with forest destroyers , Unilever is fueling the climate crisis .
The more forests we lose to runaway land-use expansion , the more carbon in the atmosphere is released , and one of the most powerful natural solutions in fighting the climate emergency is gone forever .

Unilever recently announced it will use phone tracking data to monitor its palm oil supply chains. This is a false solution. This type of geo-location technology, which uses cell phone location data, is not going to put an end to deforestation nor the forms of exploitation tied to the agricultural commodities trade.
Big data-driven processes do not address the core problems of production that are intrinsically tied to forest destruction, land theft, corruption and human rights abuses.
This is yet another example of corporations using private sector, voluntary measures to obscure what they truly are doing—bringing us closer to climate and biodiversity catastrophes.
Palm oil production remains a leading driver of deforestation along with all of its human rights, climate, and ecological impacts. The only thing to reverse the negative impacts of commodities trading, including the palm oil trade, is for companies like Unilever to stop buying raw materials that come from draining peatlands, setting a blaze and bulldozing forests.
Fires are intentionally started to clear land for palm oil and pulp & paper plantations. They release a massive amount of greenhouse gas emissions that go unaccounted for by industry. Greenpeace International calculated that between 2015 and 2018, emissions from peatland fires attributed to the plantation sector amounted to 427 megatonnes of CO2, a total equivalent to the average annual emissions of 110 coal-fired power plants or 91 million cars. According to UNICEF, in 2019, Indonesia’s annual fire crisis exposes 10 million children across the region to deadly air pollution.
In 2019, alone,1.6 million hectares of tropical forest and carbon-rich peatlands in Indonesia burned, in many cases to make way for pulp & paper and palm oil plantations, linked to the global market and companies such as Unilever. Over the last two decades, the palm oil sector has driven the deforestation of millions of hectares of forests, habitats and peatlands across Indonesia, Malaysia, Africa and South America. As numerous reports from Greenpeace and other NGOs show, major producer groups within Indonesia supplying the global trade continue to be linked to deforestation, fire and human rights abuses.
Real transparency for any company sourcing commodities such as beef, palm oil, soya or timber means requiring as a condition of trade that suppliers make publicly available full information on both their land holdings and origins of the commodities they supply.
Living up to zero deforestation commitments and the global climate and biodiversity crisis means that companies must only buy commodities from supply chain actors that they prove – through public accountability platforms – are clean, even if this means reducing the volumes bought.
Using data from phone signals on movements to track where commodities are coming from introduces critical questions about the shortcomings of how this type of technology can truly tackle deforestation. How this data will inform Unilever’s decision making and ensure transparency and traceability in its supply chains remains unclear to its consumers and other stakeholders.
The company has proven it cannot follow through with its commitments to end deforestation and its palm oil supply chain remains connected to fires, peat and land clearing. Earlier this year Unilever admitted it would fail to meet its 2020 deforestation commitments and has now moved the target to 2023.
All over the world, we are seeing that the impacts of the climate and biodiversity crisis and companies like Unilever are directly connected. By continuing to do business with forest destroyers, Unilever is fueling the climate crisis. The more forests we lose to runaway land-use expansion, the more carbon in the atmosphere is released, and one of the most powerful natural solutions in fighting the climate emergency is gone forever.