Journalists investigate the implications of Guyana's oil discovery and ExxonMobil's suppressed climate change research. They uncover the company's tactics, discuss the dangers of the oil and gas sector, and explore the political climate in Guyana. The episode also features segments on wine subscriptions, electric vehicles, and eco-friendly laundry.
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Quick takeaways
The discovery of oil off the coast of Guyana brought attention to the country's exploration efforts and potential as an oil producer.
ExxonMobil buried its own research about climate change and actively worked to dismiss the warnings, despite their knowledge of the impending crisis.
Deep dives
Exxon's discovery of oil in Guyana
ExxonMobil announced the discovery of oil off the coast of Guyana, which was a significant event for the country. The announcement brought attention to the country's exploration efforts and potential as an oil producer.
Exxon's history of climate change research
Investigations revealed that ExxonMobil had buried research conducted by its own scientists in the 1970s about the effects of climate change. The company deliberately kept these warnings hidden and actively worked to dismiss them, despite their knowledge of the impending climate crisis.
The challenges faced by journalists reporting on Exxon
Journalists who have reported on Exxon have experienced instances of intimidation and interference during their investigative work. This includes canceled hotel reservations and other disruptions, indicating possible attempts to manipulate or hinder the reporting process.
Five years ago, Kiana Wilburg was a new reporter when ExxonMobil executives and Guyanese government officials announced they had found oil 40 miles offshore. Wilburg and her newsroom had to quickly learn about the industry and this company that was suddenly so influential in their country and were left with just one question: exactly what kind of a deal had the country signed onto?