Drilled The ABCs of Big Oil | Ep 1: First Day of School
Sep 24, 2021
Dharna Noor, a climate reporter at Earther, dives into the historical ties between the fossil fuel industry and education. She reveals how Big Oil has shaped educational content for decades, crafting narratives that limit critical climate discussions. Noor highlights striking contrasts in climate awareness among children in the Marshall Islands versus adults influenced by industry messaging. The conversation uncovers the insidious tactics that fossil fuel companies use to shape young minds and the urgent need for a balanced perspective on energy education.
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Climate Denial in Arkansas Schools
- Katie Worth visited schools in Arkansas to compare climate education with the Marshall Islands.
- She found American students steeped in climate denial, encountering a lobbyist presenting to 7th graders.
Lobbyist's Presentation
- An oil and gas lobbyist presented to 7th graders, downplaying carbon emissions without explaining climate change.
- She listed drawbacks of alternative energy sources, promoting a pro-fossil fuel narrative.
Narrowing Solutions
- The fossil fuel industry's influence narrows the perceived solutions to climate change.
- This framing limits how we think about the problem and possible actions.