Saudi-linked experts among authors of major IPCC climate assessment
A Guardian investigation found that at least a dozen authors contributing to the IPCC’s next major climate assessment are employed by, or linked to, Saudi Aramco, Saudi institutions or other fossil-fuel interests. The findings have raised concerns about whether the IPCC’s conflict-of-interest safeguards can adequately protect the independence of reports that influence international negotiations and national climate policy.
The investigation reviewed 223 authors in the IPCC working group assessing emissions reductions and identified 20 cases of strong potential conflicts, 11 involving Saudi-linked individuals or organisations. Examples include Aramco employees assessing energy systems, researchers involved in Aramco-funded carbon-storage work, and an IPCC vice-chair who advises Saudi Arabia’s energy ministry while representing the kingdom at climate negotiations. The IPCC says no conflicts required referral because they could be managed internally, while critics argue that disclosures are insufficiently transparent and that the rules are not fit for purpose.
- Saudi-linked experts hold prominent roles in the IPCC’s next assessment.
- Investigators identified 20 strong potential conflict-of-interest cases.
- Critics say the IPCC’s safeguards lack transparency and effectiveness.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “How Saudi oil scientists ended up working on the world’s most important climate reports”.