European Parliament Faces Criticism for Hosting Climate Denial Groups
Representatives of the Heartland Institute, a US-based thinktank known for promoting climate science denial, have been collaborating with rightwing Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to oppose various environmental policies. Critics accuse MEPs of providing a platform for climate deniers, particularly as concerns grow over a resurgence of climate skepticism across Europe.
Since establishing a base in London, the Heartland Institute has actively engaged with rightwing politicians, including those from Hungary, Poland, and Austria, to campaign against environmental legislation. The thinktank has garnered attention for its extreme views, once likening belief in climate change to the actions of a terrorist, and has received significant funding from fossil fuel companies and wealthy Republican donors.
Notably, Austrian MEPs associated with the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) sought alliance with Heartland to diminish climate alarmism. Their activities included participation in Heartland's climate conferences and supporting initiatives to counteract legislation aimed at addressing climate change.
Green MEPs have expressed concern over Heartland’s influence in the European Parliament, urging politicians to reject the organization's agenda. Critics fear this relationship could threaten established climate policies and undermine public trust in scientific research. The European Parliament, while maintaining that MEPs can organize their own events, has emphasized the importance of not compromising its reputation.
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