Report Identifies Over 260 Fossil Fuel Industry Programs in Schools and Youth Sports

A climate advocacy group has identified more than 260 programs in schools and youth sports funded by coal, oil and gas companies including Santos, BHP, Woodside, Shell and Chevron. The report by Comms Declare found the companies spent more than $50 million on six of the programs, indicating broader spending across educational and community settings.

Researchers noted that some teaching materials presented climate impacts while giving limited attention to the role of fossil fuel production.

Woodside stated it does not provide content for the programs it funds and that content decisions rest with recipient organizations. The Queensland Resources Council said its Oresome Resources program recorded more than 43,500 users this financial year and that all materials align with the Australian curriculum.

Some materials on the Oresome Resources site have not been updated since 2010 and present a minerals and energy sector perspective, describing coal as a source of cheap, reliable electricity while noting its air pollutants and water use.

Greens and independent senators called for a senate inquiry into industry-sponsored education programs in schools. One senator said companies should not provide education without oversight, comparing the situation to restrictions on tobacco companies entering schools.

The report noted the absence of dedicated oversight mechanisms or disclosure requirements for industry partnerships involving children.