The Heartland Institute, long criticized for its contentious stance on climate change, has officially launched its UK branch at an exclusive event in Mayfair, London. The launch, attended by notable figures such as former Prime Minister Liz Truss and Tory MPs Andrew Griffith and Christopher Chope, marks a significant development in the Institute's efforts to extend its influence across Europe. The Heartland Institute is widely known for its denial of climate science and has been compared to the Unabomber for its extreme views on global heating.
In recent years, the Heartland Institute has faced backlash for its claims, notably asserting that heatwaves are not increasing in the United States due to the climate crisis. Despite criticism, the group maintains a strong relationship with Nigel Farage and has been linked to the incoming Trump administration. The organization has received substantial funding from companies like ExxonMobil and affluent US Republican donors.
James Taylor, President of the Heartland Institute, stated that there has been a demand from policymakers throughout Europe for the establishment of a satellite office.
“During recent years, a growing number of policymakers in the UK and continental Europe have requested Heartland establish a satellite office to provide resources to conservative policymakers throughout Europe.” – James Taylor
The UK branch aims to cater to this request by offering resources to conservative policymakers across Europe. Lois Perry, former leader of Ukip and a vocal critic of climate emergency narratives, will head the UK branch. Perry has controversially described the climate crisis as "a scam," aligning with the Institute's history of promoting climate science denial in the US.
Critics have voiced concerns about the potential repercussions of the Heartland Institute's UK presence. Adrian Ramsay, co-leader of the Green Party, condemned the move, highlighting its implications for British politics and climate policy.
“That Farage seems so willing to sell out British interests and front climate denial for his own short-term gain should alarm us all.” – Adrian Ramsay
Reform MPs have also used parliamentary platforms to advocate for abandoning net zero targets. The Heartland Institute's president claims that opposition to net zero goals is gaining momentum, emphasizing their intent to influence European conservative circles.
The event's attendees defended their participation, with Andrew Griffith clarifying his stance.
“In any year, I attend hundreds of external events with business organisations and thinktanks, none of which automatically imply my endorsement. A successful UK business environment requires competitive energy costs, something this socialist government seems not to understand.” – Andrew Griffith
The establishment of the UK branch has been perceived by some as an attempt to "import dirty US climate-denying money into British politics." The Heartland Institute's connections and funding sources have raised alarms among environmental advocates who fear it will undermine efforts to address the global climate crisis.