The Origins of Climate Change Advocacy: Greta Thunberg and Beyond

The modern climate change movement, often attributed to Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, began in Hawaii. Yet, the roots of the climate change issue can be traced back much further, involving various influential figures and institutions. This article explores these origins, including the historical contributions of a lab in San Diego, Swedish political leaders, and former US Vice President Al Gore.

The San Diego Lab and Government Funding

Before Greta Thunberg's involvement, one of the earliest contributors to climate change research was a lab in San Diego. Located in the early 1960s, this laboratory focused on studying the aftereffects of the Bikini Atoll bomb tests. As government funding for the project was in doubt, the lab's head managed to secure continued funding from the government, ensuring the continuation of valuable research on a topic that would later gain global attention.

Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme

Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme played a significant role in early climate change advocacy. Palme advocated for nuclearizing Sweden's power grid and often highlighted the dangers of carbon dioxide (CO2), framing it as a harmful substance needing attention. His efforts can be seen as an early attempt to implement policies that would reduce CO2 emissions within Sweden.

Former US Vice President Al Gore

Al Gore's involvement in climate change advocacy is well-documented. He leveraged his platform to popularize the issue, notably through his film An Inconvenient Truth. Gore founded a carbon credit brokerage to capitalize on the growing demand for carbon emission reduction techniques. This trade provided significant financial benefits to him and his associates, further highlighting the commercial aspects of the climate change movement.

Government Funding and Academic Opportunities

As concerns about climate change gained more public attention, governments and international organizations began to fund more research into the subject. This led to a surge in academic interest and opportunities for researchers. Quasi-conspiratorial narratives point towards a situation where multiple groups recognized the potential for wealth and influence tied to the climate change narrative. These groups often focused on shutting down as much industry as possible, viewing progress as detrimental.

The Role of the Environment Programme

The Environment Programme, which was often staffed by passionate environmental activists, became a hub for advocating strict climate action. Their zeal in pursuing industrial policies aimed at reducing emissions and promoting green energy could be seen as a way to advance their ideological goals, regardless of the scientific consensus at the time.

The Waning of Religious Beliefs in Western Industrialized Nations

Interestingly, the rise of the climate change movement might also be coincidentally linked to the waning of religious beliefs in Western industrialized nations. As traditional faith-based explanations and worldviews faded, many individuals and groups turned to environmentalism and activism as new focal points for purpose and societal engagement. This shift could explain the fervor with which climate change advocacy was adopted.

The climate change movement, while rooted in complex scientific and historical contexts, has undoubtedly grown beyond these origins. From Greta Thunberg's grassroots activism to the well-funded and politically powerful environmental organizations of today, the climate change narrative continues to evolve and influence global policies and public discourse.