The Harm of Bloomberg’s Beyond Carbon Campaign on Native American Sovereignty

Michael Bloomberg’s $500 million injection into the Beyond Carbon campaign, while lauded by eco-activists, overlooks the consequences for Native American communities, particularly the Crow and Navajo Nations.

Coal’s Role in U.S. Energy Generation

Coal, accounting for 19.5% of U.S. electricity generation in 2022, remains pivotal in America’s energy landscape, second only to natural gas (39.8%). This underscores the challenge of transitioning from coal, a vital economic foundation for coal-dependent communities like the Crow and Navajo Nations.

Impact on the Crow and Navajo Nation

The Crow Nation, the largest coal resource owner outside the U.S. Government, and the Navajo Nation, the third-largest coal producer, face economic risks from the campaign’s aim to phase out coal. This move threatens their economic base and undermines their sovereign rights to resource management.

Energy Transition and Economic Realities

Transitioning to renewables requires doubling the U.S. electricity grid and an estimated $2 trillion investment by 2050. Although substantial, Bloomberg’s $500 million is dwarfed by the scale of this undertaking and the current dependency on coal.

Questioning Motives and Respecting Sovereignty

Bloomberg’s shift from Wall Street to environmental advocacy raises questions about the implications for Tribal Nations. His campaign, supported by entities like the Sierra Club, may sideline the rights and needs of Native American communities. Respecting tribal sovereignty and self-determination is paramount, especially in decisions involving resource utilization and energy policy.

The Beyond Carbon campaign is greenwashing and risks encroaching on the sovereignty of tribes like the Crow and Navajo. A balanced approach with respect for the autonomy of marginalized communities is needed. Empowering Native American tribes to make informed decisions about their resources is essential in honoring their sovereignty and self-determination.