Summary
The U.S. Department of Energy disbanded a group that had questioned mainstream climate change science. This group had written a controversial report that faced criticism from various scientists and environmental groups. A lawsuit is ongoing regarding the legality of this group's activities.
Key Facts
- The Energy Department's Climate Working Group (CWG) has been disbanded.
- The CWG was criticized for producing a report that led to backlash from scientists who claimed it misrepresented climate science.
- Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced the disbandment of the CWG through a letter on September 3rd.
- A lawsuit by the Environmental Defense Fund and the Union of Concerned Scientists challenges the legality of the CWG's report.
- The CWG report was used by the Environmental Protection Agency in its efforts to change regulations on climate pollution.
- Critics say the CWG report copied tactics used by the tobacco industry to avoid regulation.
- A conference in Belgium praised the report for encouraging open dialogue despite criticism.
- The dispute continues over whether the CWG report will influence EPA decisions on climate regulation.
