Trump's Energy Department forbids staff from saying ‘climate change’ or ‘green’ | TechCrunch

Trump's Energy Department Bans Staff from Using 'Climate Change' and 'Green' In a move that has sparked widespread criticism, the U.S. Department of Energy has instructed its staff to avoid using certain terms deemed "sensitive" by a Trump appointee. According to an email obtained by Politico, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) was told to refrain from using words such as "climate change," "green," and "emissions." The memo, sent by EERE special advisor Rachael Overbey on Friday, lists 11 terms that are off-limits for staff use. The banned words include "decarbonization," "energy transition," "sustainability," "subsidies," "tax breaks," "tax credits," and "carbon footprint." The email emphasizes the importance of using alternative language to avoid any perceived negativity. The move has been met with outrage from environmental groups and experts, who argue that it undermines the department's mission to promote clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "This is a clear attempt to suppress discussion of climate change and its impacts," said Michael Brune, executive director of the Sierra Club. "It's unacceptable for the Energy Department to try to silence its own staff on this critical issue." The EERE was established in 1978 as a response to the 1973 energy crisis, which led to soaring oil prices. The office was created to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. However, under the Trump administration, the department has been criticized for rolling back environmental regulations and promoting fossil fuels. Experts say that the ban on certain terms is not only confusing but also counterproductive. "Using euphemisms like 'energy transition' instead of 'decarbonization' doesn't change the fact that we need to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a climate scientist at the University of California, Berkeley. The Department of Energy has not commented on the memo or the implications of the banned words. However, the move is seen as part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to downplay the risks of climate change and promote fossil fuel interests. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, the Energy Department's decision to ban certain terms has sparked concerns about the department's commitment to addressing this critical issue. The controversy highlights the need for transparency and honesty in government communication, particularly when it comes to matters of public health and safety. Background: The EERE was established in 1978 as a response to the 1973 energy crisis. The office is responsible for promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. Under the Trump administration, the department has been criticized for rolling back environmental regulations and promoting fossil fuels. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Maria Rodriguez, climate scientist at the University of California, Berkeley: "Using euphemisms like 'energy transition' instead of 'decarbonization' doesn't change the fact that we need to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels." Michael Brune, executive director of the Sierra Club: "This is a clear attempt to suppress discussion of climate change and its impacts. It's unacceptable for the Energy Department to try to silence its own staff on this critical issue." Current Status and Next Developments: The controversy surrounding the banned words has sparked widespread criticism and outrage from environmental groups and experts. The move has also raised questions about the department's commitment to addressing climate change. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the Energy Department's mission to promote clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. *Reporting by Techcrunch.*