The branded science kit in the classroom. The logo on the local footy jersey. The sponsored excursion to the science centre. On their own, these things seem harmless enough – generous, even. But a new investigation suggests they may be part of something far more calculated.
A report by Comms Declare has found Australia's largest coal, oil and gas companies – including Santos, Shell, Chevron and BHP – have spent tens of millions of dollars on more than 260 teaching programs, sport sponsorships and partnerships in childhood settings, with the funding often used to drive industry recruitment or influence educational materials.
The report raises serious questions about the extent of fossil fuel industry engagement with children and young people, and whether parents are being given sufficient transparency about who is influencing their children and why.
Parents for Climate CEO Nic Seton said the findings warrant an immediate Senate Inquiry.
“This investigation reveals something every Australian parent has a right to know,” Seton said in a statement.
“Australia's biggest fossil fuel companies are building relationships with our children through the very institutions families trust most, from schools and museums to science centres, sporting organisations and community programs.”
Seton said parents shouldn't have to wonder whether the organisations they trust are helping fossil fuel companies win the trust of the next generation.
“As a parent, I find that deeply disturbing. These companies are making billions selling polluting products driving climate change, while building positive relationships with the very generation that will live with the consequences longest,” Seton said.
“Parents spend years carefully choosing who influences their children. We don't expect fossil fuel companies to be on that list.”
Seton said the situation is akin to schools inviting tobacco companies into classrooms to teach children about health.
“Why are fossil fuel companies being welcomed into places families trust?” Seton said.
“Parents have a right to know who is talking to their children, what they're saying and whose interests they're serving. Right now, we simply don't know.”