Make Big Oil pay for Europe’s heat protection, campaigners demand

Fossil fuel companies should be forced to fund urgent measures protecting Europeans from deadly heatwaves, climate campaigners have said.

Environmental group 350.org made the call after more than 10,000 excess deaths were recorded across Europe during record-breaking heat in June. Wildfires have also continued to burn in France and Spain.

The group wants governments to upgrade hospitals, care facilities, schools and universities while providing emergency support for farmers and other vulnerable groups.

France’s High Council on Climate warned that the country’s infrastructure, cities and public services were designed for “a climate that no longer exists”. It said current adaptation policies were failing to provide sufficient protection.

350.org said governments must invest heavily in adaptation while accelerating the move towards affordable renewable energy. Its analysis suggests heatwaves are also increasing household energy spending.

The campaigners argue that stronger permanent taxes on oil and gas profits should cover the costs rather than placing another burden on taxpayers facing high energy bills.

Fanny Petitbon, 350.org France Country Manager, said: “This heatwave isn’t just about lack of preparedness; it’s gross negligence. Scientists have sounded the alarm long ago but governments chose to keep burning fossil fuels.

“It’s never too late to protect people. Investing in adaptation now can save thousands more from harm in the months and years to come.

“The industry must pay both for the destruction and urgent measures like better thermal insulation of social housing, schools and hospitals, greening of public spaces and heat warning systems for outdoor workers.”