Two young climate researchers, Rebecca Grekin and Yannai Kashtan, are challenging the status quo at Stanford University, where they study and teach. Despite being good friends, they have very different views on how to address the urgent issue of climate change.
Ms. Grekin, whose academic career has been funded by Exxon Mobil, believes in working from within the system to bring about change. She sees the value in research funded by oil and gas companies, pointing to her own work being used to reduce the climate impact of food services at universities.
On the other hand, Mr. Kashtan is skeptical of oil-industry motivations, viewing technologies like electrofuels as distractions from the critical task of reducing fossil fuel consumption. He questions the climate bona fides of programs funded by fossil fuel companies at Stanford’s Doerr School.
Despite their differences, the two researchers have found common ground in proposing guidelines for how Stanford should engage with fossil fuel companies. Their proposed guidelines call for partnerships only with companies committed to transitioning to renewable energy and aligning with the goals of the Paris accord.
As they continue to navigate their differing perspectives, Ms. Grekin remains optimistic about the potential for change, while Mr. Kashtan emphasizes the urgency of the climate crisis. Their ongoing dialogue reflects the complex and evolving nature of the debate around fossil fuel funding in academic research.
