In a recent development, climate activist Greta Thunberg has decided to cancel her appearance at the Edinburgh International Book Festival due to the festival’s sponsorship ties with Baillie Gifford, an investment firm allegedly involved in the fossil fuel industry. Thunberg accused the industry of “greenwashing” by using cultural events as a means to maintain their social license to operate. This decision reflects her firm stance against supporting organizations associated with fossil fuel investments.
Baillie Gifford, the festival sponsor for nearly two decades, countered the claims by stating that it only invests 2% of its clients’ funds in companies having some involvement with fossil fuels, compared to the market average of 11%. The firm argued that many of these companies are already moving away from fossil fuels and actively promoting clean energy solutions. They also highlighted their support for climate-positive ventures and initiatives. However, a recent report by the Ferret news service alleged that Baillie Gifford has substantial investments in companies capitalizing on fossil fuel profits.
Thunberg was scheduled to speak at an event entitled “It’s Not Too Late To Change The World” at the Edinburgh Playhouse. This appearance was highly anticipated, as it would have been her first public speaking engagement in Scotland since her visit for the COP26 conference in Glasgow. During the event, she intended to discuss her activism and her book, “The Climate Book”.
Nick Barley, the director of the book festival, acknowledged Thunberg’s commitment to her principles but emphasized the importance of maintaining the festival’s principles as well. He expressed gratitude for the long-term support of sponsors like Baillie Gifford and believed they were part of the solution to the climate emergency. Barley apologized to ticket holders for the event, assuring them of full refunds. He also extended a personal apology to the young climate campaigners who were invited to attend due to their significant role in effecting change in Scotland.
Greta Thunberg first gained international recognition in 2018 when she initiated a solo protest outside the Swedish parliament, urging immediate action on climate change. Her courageous act sparked “school strikes” across Europe, the US, and Australia, demanding government accountability. Thunberg has persistently criticized world leaders for their perceived inaction on the climate crisis and has been involved in various protests worldwide, including a recent demonstration against coal in Germany where she was briefly detained by authorities.
This latest development underscores the continued importance of raising awareness about the devastating consequences of the climate emergency. It highlights Thunberg’s unwavering determination to hold individuals, organizations, and governments accountable for their environmental actions. The controversy surrounding sponsorships also raises questions about the role of corporate funding in cultural events and the potential for greenwashing. It urges society to carefully consider the partnerships and investments we support and demand greater transparency regarding funding sources and sustainability efforts.
As global citizens, we must continue to prioritize the urgency of addressing climate change through sustainable practices and advocating for responsible investment decisions. Greta Thunberg’s decision to withdraw from the Edinburgh Book Festival serves as a reminder that our choices and actions can have a significant impact on shaping a more sustainable future.
