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Trump’s Energy Department forbids staff from saying ‘climate change’ or ‘green’
The Department of Energy under a Trump appointee has banned terms like 'climate change' and 'green' for staff communications, reflecting the administration's stance against renewable energy narratives. The EERE, aimed at promoting energy efficiency post-1973 crisis, contrasts Trump's pro-fossil fuel approach as global investments in renewables continue to rise significantly.
Key points
- The Department of Energy has banned words including 'climate change', 'green', and 'sustainability' to avoid negative connotations.
- This directive came from Rachael Overbey, a special advisor in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE).
- The EERE was created in the late 1970s to enhance renewable energy and stability following the energy crisis.
- Trump's administration has criticized renewable energy, labeling it as a 'green energy scam'.
- Despite U.S. policy, global renewable energy investments reached a record $386 billion in early 2025, up 10% from 2024.
Why it matters
- The ban on terminology reflects a broader trend in political discourse about climate issues and renewable energy debates.
- The EERE's historical context showcases past attempts to stabilize the economy, contrasting current policies favoring fossil fuels.
- The global trend of increasing investment in renewables indicates a significant shift in energy strategies, regardless of U.S. governmental rhetoric.
This action illustrates the ongoing tension between U.S. energy policies under Trump and the global movement towards renewable energy, as investments rise despite governmental opposition.