Online Public Relations Thoughts

Environmental groups have filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission against oil giant Chevron.  They allege false advertising on Chevron's part in its claims to be more responsible in climate control.  Chevron says their charge is frivolous.  The protestors assert that oil companies are engaged in greenwashing, making their products look friendlier to earth, air and water than they are.  The FTC has yet to reply but the situation is potentially a PR crisis for large oil companies.  They may need to increase investments in clean energy by massive amounts to satisfy critics -- tens of billions instead hundreds of millions.  This won't sit well with shareholders who might not see a return right away -- or ever.  But, Big Oil is one key to getting climate change under control.  The corporations need to reduce emissions at refineries and in fuel they sell.  That won't be easy and there is little wonder they are accused of slow-walking efforts in cleaning the environment.