Trump’s Energy Department Forbids Staff From Saying ‘Climate Change’ Or ‘Green’
Trump’s Energy Department forbids staff from saying ‘climate change’ or ‘green,’ marking one of the most controversial language restrictions yet. A memo sent to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) instructed employees to avoid specific words tied to renewable energy and environmental policy.
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According to Politico, the list was circulated by EERE special advisor Rachael Overbey. In her email, she wrote, “Please ensure that every member of your team is aware that this is the latest list of words to avoid.” The move has already sparked debate among energy experts and environmental advocates.
The Words Banned By Trump’s Energy Department
The prohibited terms include climate change, green, decarbonization, energy transition, sustainability, sustainable, subsidies, tax breaks, tax credits, carbon footprint, and even emissions.
Critics argue that banning “emissions” is especially odd since the Supreme Court ruled in 2007 that greenhouse gases can be regulated as pollutants. By avoiding such terms, staff may struggle to accurately communicate scientific and policy realities.
Why The EERE Exists
The EERE was founded in the late 1970s as a response to the oil crisis, with a mission to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. The goal was to shield the U.S. economy from volatility caused by oil and gas price shocks.
By forbidding staff from using words like “climate change” or “green,” the Department risks undermining the very mission that created the EERE decades ago. Critics warn this could weaken U.S. leadership in clean energy at a time when global competition is heating up.
Trump’s Stance On Renewable Energy
President Trump and his appointees have long taken aim at renewable energy. In official speeches, Trump has called the clean energy transition a “green energy scam.” At the United Nations last week, he criticized other countries for pouring billions into solar, wind, and other technologies, signaling his administration’s commitment to fossil fuels.
Why This Matters
By restricting language, Trump’s Energy Department is reshaping how energy policy is framed in Washington. Advocates fear this will limit honest discussion about climate and renewable energy. Supporters, however, argue it’s a move to cut what they call “politically loaded” terms from government communications.
Either way, the ban highlights how language itself has become a political battlefield in America’s energy future.
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