Over 75% of UK Universities Commit to Fossil Fuel Pledge, Activists Report
More than three-quarters of UK universities have pledged to exclude fossil fuel companies from their investment portfolios, according to campaigners. This significant move is part of a broader effort to reduce investments in fossil fuels and comes after years of advocacy from staff and students in the higher education sector.
People & Planet Announces Progress
The student campaign group People & Planet revealed that a total of 115 out of 149 UK universities have made public commitments to divest from fossil fuels. This means that £17.7 billion worth of endowments are now inaccessible to the fossil fuel industry. Laura Clayson, representing People & Planet, expressed astonishment at the collective refusal to invest in fossil fuels, a stark departure from practices just a decade ago. She attributed this achievement to the dedication of past and present generations of students and staff who have fought for justice alongside affected communities.
Fossil Free Universities Campaign
People & Planet initiated the Fossil Free universities campaign in 2013, emphasizing the importance of amplifying the voices and struggles of communities directly impacted by the climate crisis. Clayson underscored that the call for divestment originated from these frontline communities, urging activists in the global north to advocate for change. The campaign sheds light on projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), which poses a significant threat to the environment and local residents. Ntambazi Imuran Java, from the Stop EACOP Uganda campaign, commended UK students for their support and emphasized the importance of halting destructive extraction projects.
Continued Advocacy and Progress
While four UK institutions recently adopted fossil fuel exclusions in their ethical investment policies, there are still 34 universities yet to commit to divestment. People & Planet plans to release a university league table ranking institutions based on their ethical and environmental practices, aiming to increase pressure on those lagging behind in the transition to fossil-free investments.
As we reflect on the strides made by UK universities towards sustainable investment practices, it is essential to recognize the collective efforts that have brought us to this pivotal moment. From the dedicated activists on the frontlines to the students advocating for change within university boardrooms, each individual has played a crucial role in driving progress towards a more sustainable future. Let us continue to stand in solidarity with impacted communities and amplify their voices to create a world where ethical and environmentally responsible choices are the norm.
