Record number of fossil fuel lobbyists at COP27

Dear friends,

This is a special newsletter dedicated to our latest research on the climate talks. There are 636 fossil fuel lobbyists at COP27 in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt this year - that’s over 100 more than last year in Glasgow. In fact, there are more fossil fuel lobbyists than representatives of the ten nations most impacted by the climate crisis.

This figure is an increase of over 25% from COP26, showing a rise in the influence of the fossil fuel industry, a revelation that comes at a COP that is already rife with accusations of civil society censorship and corporate influence.

Our research with Corporate Accountability and Global Witness identified these lobbyists, affiliated with some of the world's biggest polluting oil and gas giants such as Shell, Chevron and BP. If you don’t have the time to read it, don’t worry, you can listen to our latest podcast episode about it!

So, what can we do about it? This is the exciting bit. We’ve launched a campaign to kick big polluters out of the negotiating table and make sure climate justice movements  are steering the ship. It’s been endorsed by over 420 organisations and individuals, including none other than Jeremy Corbyn, who said this in support:

“If COP27 is to deliver real change, we can't let big polluters write climate policy and bankroll climate talks. 

“That’s why I support Kick Big Polluters Out in their campaign to empower people not polluters. This is a vital campaign to build a new path to climate, social, and global justice. 

“A path that protects the rights of Indigenous peoples, not extractive corporations destroying their land and livelihoods. A path that prevents fossil fuel giants from profiting from our extinction. A path to systemic change on a global scale.”

If you haven’t yet, make sure you sign the petition here.

For the full story, make sure you check out our website, and follow us on social media!

In solidarity,

The CEO Comms Team

- Kat, Joana, and Lucy