A United Nations climate expert is stirring up a debate by suggesting that those who challenge climate goals should face criminal penalties. This idea has sparked concern among critics, who see it as a move to silence opposing views on climate change.
Elisa Morgera, the U.N. special rapporteur on human rights and climate change, shared her findings in a recent report titled “The Imperative of Defossilizing Our Economies.” In it, she argues for a complete halt to oil production and infrastructure by 2030. She insists that failing to act poses serious risks to human rights, particularly the right to life.
To better inform the public about energy and climate issues, Morgera recommends banning oil company advertising and lobbying. She also calls for criminalizing what she terms “misinformation” spread by the fossil fuel industry.
This report has sparked backlash. Some U.S. lawmakers are unhappy with the latest Senate bill, which they believe does not align with their views on environmental policy. Texas GOP Rep. Keith Self voiced his frustration on social media, questioning the motives behind changes in the bill that he feels may undermine efforts to combat what he calls the “Green New Scam.”
Recent statistics highlight the urgency of climate change discussions. A 2021 survey by the Pew Research Center found that nearly 70% of Americans believe the government is not doing enough to address climate change. This sentiment is echoed worldwide, with over 75% of global citizens considering climate change a “major threat,” according to a 2022 Gallup poll.
As conversations continue, it’s vital to balance diverse opinions while striving for effective climate action. The discussions around Morgera’s report and recent legislative developments reflect a complex landscape where science, politics, and public perception intersect.
For further insights on climate policy, you can read more at the Pew Research Center and consult Gallup’s latest polling data.