EDINBURGH: Climate activist Greta Thunberg pulled out of a much-anticipated event at the Edinburgh International Book Festival on Friday, citing a sponsor´s “heavy” investments in fossil fuel and accusing them of “greenwashing”.
“As a climate activist I cannot attend an event which receives sponsorship from Baillie Gifford, who invest heavily in the fossil fuel industry”, said the 20-year-old Swedish activist in a statement on the festival website.
Thunberg was due to speak at the event entitled “It´s Not Too Late To Change The World” on August 13. Tickets for the event, which was meant to take place in the 3,000-seat Playhouse theatre, sold out in less than 24 hours. British investment firm Baillie Gifford and festival director Nick Barley both defended their ties.
“As a charitable organisation, we would not be in a position to provide that platform without the long-term support of organisations such as Baillie Gifford,” said Barley, adding that he respected Thunberg´s decision.
“The Book Festival exists to give a platform for debate and discussion around key issues affecting humanity today - including the climate emergency.”
Police initially blamed the flooding on a burst dam
There has also been infighting over how progressive its pitch should be as it seeks to woo back voters
The government of India has been very clear with us that they are taking this seriously and will investigate
Temperatures in the Philippines are forecast to reach 37 degree Celsius in the next three days
The defence minister also expressed concerns over the Afghan situation
The suspects in one of the largest criminal cases in German history had been held incommunicado until they met in the...