A secretive climate activist group called the Gas Leaks Action Campaign has recently taken on a more active role in advocating against natural gas-powered appliances such as stoves. Founded in late 2021 or early 2022, the group launched a $1 million ad campaign warning of the dangers of natural gas, claiming it harms the environment, pollutes indoor air, and poses explosion risks in stoves. Gas Leaks has also led a campaign against the American Gas Association, hosting events with Democratic lawmakers and environmental groups to criticize the AGA’s lobbying efforts.
Gas Leaks has posted several job positions on various sites, indicating a significant investment in staff with salaries ranging from $65,000 to $160,000. The group has grown in influence among Democratic lawmakers and climate-focused organizations, despite maintaining a secretive online presence. Little information is available about the group’s founders, funding sources, or history, with only vague references to “climate advocacy veterans” involved. Gas Leaks is supported by Climate Nexus, which is backed by Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, allowing the group to operate without publicly sharing financial information.
The Gas Leaks Action Campaign has drawn criticism for its lack of transparency and connection to sources of funding. A single donor, the Heising-Simons Foundation, has provided significant financial support, with grants totaling $300,000 earmarked for Gas Leaks. The foundation supports climate and clean energy initiatives, as well as research in science, education, and human rights. Co-founded by Mark Heising in 2007, the foundation has a history of supporting green energy companies and causes, reflecting its commitment to sustainable solutions.
Critics have raised concerns about the influence of wealthy donors and the Democratic Party on efforts to ban natural gas appliances like stoves. Environmentalists have long targeted natural gas for its climate impact and pollution, with recent discussions at the Consumer Product Safety Commission about potentially banning gas stoves gaining attention. The Department of Energy issued regulations aimed at gas stoves last year following pressure from environmental groups and studies linking gas stoves to health problems.
The Gas Leaks Action Campaign, along with other groups like Climate Nexus and the Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, has not responded to requests for comment regarding their actions and funding sources. Democratic lawmakers like Senators Markey and Whitehouse, who have been involved in campaigns against natural gas, also did not respond to requests for comment. Critics argue that the environmental movement is influenced by wealthy donors and political agendas, with a focus on banning natural gas appliances like stoves as part of efforts to combat climate change and promote clean energy solutions.
Overall, the Gas Leaks Action Campaign represents a growing trend of climate activist groups advocating against natural gas appliances and promoting clean energy alternatives. With significant financial backing and ties to influential donors, the group has gained traction among Democratic lawmakers and environmental organizations. However, concerns about transparency, funding sources, and the impact of such campaigns on energy policy and consumers remain unanswered. The debate over natural gas and its role in climate change continues to evolve, with advocacy groups at the forefront of shaping public opinion and policy decisions.
