Inaction of the most polluting companies

In 2017, a report by the Carbon Disclosure Project revealed that 100 companies, "would" be responsible for 71% of global emissions. This was the first time a database accounted for global emissions, past and present, at the corporate level. The 71% figure includes "scope 3" emissions, i.e. it holds fossil fuel extraction companies solely responsible for the carbon emitted during combustion.

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The report warned of the risks of continuing to extract fossil fuels: "If the trend of fossil fuel extraction continues over the next 28 years as it has over the last 28, global average temperatures would be on track to rise by 4°C by the end of the century, which would likely lead to significant species extinctions and food shortages around the world. Having these figures in mind allows us to reconnect with the preconceived ideas on environmental responsibility that would be the responsibility of the individual. In France, we can think of the government that encourages people to stop sending funny emails to their friends, or to turn off the wifi. But scientists keep pointing out that without structural changes, there is no chance to see the ecological transition happening.

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This report also served as a reminder of the historical role of these companies in climate change. For decades, they have been actively participating in global warming, sometimes by lying about their responsibility. Indeed, we can think of the company Total, which would have been aware of its climate impact as early as 1971 and which would have implemented a strategy of doubt towards climate science. The company would have "promoted uncertainty in their own communication and in their public relations".