On October 3, Princeton University reversed its 2022 policy of dissociating from fossil fuel companies, allowing them to fund university research once again. The original policy, which cut ties with 90 companies due to their environmental impact, was a significant step toward sustainability. However, this reversal is seen as a betrayal of the university's values and a threat to the fight against climate change.
Critics argue that fossil fuel companies use partnerships with institutions like Princeton to bolster their image while continuing harmful practices. Although Princeton added vague safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest, these could allow projects that still support fossil fuel extraction under the guise of reducing harm. The lack of transparency in the review process and the decision to stop publishing the names of dissociated companies further weakens oversight.
This move prioritizes financial gain and fossil fuel interests over meaningful climate action, potentially influencing other institutions to follow suit. Princeton’s decision is viewed as a setback for climate leadership, but it also serves as a call for renewed activism to push the university to align with urgent climate needs.
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Research funding from fossil fuel companies can create conflicts of interest, potentially influencing research agendas and outcomes. This raises questions about the integrity of scientific research and its alignment with climate goals.
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By now we all should be moving forward and not backwards Inorder to save ourselves and our planet.
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Maintaining ties with fossil fuel companies, universities risk delaying the shift to a clean energy future, and potentially undermining their own sustainability efforts.
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Princeton’s reversal is troubling. Allowing fossil fuel companies to fund research again compromises its commitment to sustainability. It highlights the tension between financial interests and meaningful climate action, reinforcing the need for transparency and renewed activism for a climate-conscious future.
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Dear Princess Your climate warning has received over 50 agrees! We have reached out to Princeton University by email and requested a response. I will keep you updated on any progress! To reach more people and increase the chance of a response, click the Share button above to share the review on your social accounts. For every new member that joins We Don't Have Time from your network, we will plant a tree and attribute it to you! /Adam, We Don't Have Time
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this is so disappointing
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Disappointing to see one of the leading universities backtrack
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@dickson_mutai Absolutely. It’s disappointing when an institution with such influence and prestige retreats from its commitment to sustainability. Princeton’s decision undermines progress.
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so disappointing Universities should lead by example in embracing clean energy initiatives that foster a healthier planet for future generations.
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@becky_maina I completely agree. Universities are hubs for innovation and should be at the forefront of clean energy adoption.
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@becky_maina Universities have the unique ability to influence society and shape future leaders. Embracing clean energy initiatives is not just about research; it's about setting an example for the next generation.
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@princess_nel_268 As hubs of innovation, they can play a crucial role in leading the transition to renewable energy
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@munene_mugambi You're absolutely right! While research is a crucial part of clean energy initiatives, universities and other institutions also have a responsibility to model sustainable practices.
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It's disheartening to see an institution as prestigious as Princeton University prioritize the interests of the fossil fuel industry over a commitment to sustainability.
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@frankoh_kihm_080 it's indeed disappointing, universities have a unique platform to drive positive change, and when they fall short, it undermines the broader fight against climate change.
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@frankoh_kihm_080 Short-term financial gains from fossil fuel investments should not outweigh the long-term consequences of climate change, which threaten the well-being of future generations.
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Very disappointing!! This prioritization undermines the efforts directed to combating climate change and fostering a more sustainable future.
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@walter_lungayi Absolutely, institutions like Princeton should be at the forefront of these efforts, not aligning with industries that contribute to the problem.