Mining billionaire Andrew Forrest has publicly accused Donald Trump, the President of the United States, of spreading misinformation about climate change. Speaking at a climate conference in New York on September 20, 2023, Forrest criticized the White House’s shift away from renewable energy towards fossil fuels, asserting that Trump’s stance is detrimental to global efforts to address climate issues.
Forrest’s pointed remarks came a day after Trump addressed the United Nations General Assembly, where he claimed that measures to enhance renewable energy generation are harming Western economies. “Your administration… it’s put a bet on the oldest, tiredest horse on the line, which is fossil fuel,” Forrest stated at the event hosted by the New York Times. He urged Trump to witness the impacts of climate change firsthand, stating, “Get your scuba tank on or a snorkel, come and look at these reefs.”
During his address, Forrest emphasized the tangible effects of climate change, insisting that claims suggesting global warming is a myth are fundamentally wrong. He called for greater urgency in tackling environmental issues, saying, “There’s real damage being done to people’s lives all over the world by your president propagating a complete myth that global warming is not happening. That’s wrong. That’s utterly wrong.”
Forrest, who founded Fortescue Metals, concluded his remarks with a bold challenge to anyone who might take offense at his statements. He expressed his willingness to face legal action, declaring, “[If you] sue me, I’m going to put you in the witness box when you’re out of government.” His comments received enthusiastic applause from the audience, which was largely composed of climate advocates.
The former president has consistently promoted fossil fuel extraction, famously using the rallying cry “drill, baby, drill” during his 2020 election campaign. After winning the election, Trump pulled the United States from the Paris Agreement, which aims to reduce carbon emissions globally, significantly impacting international climate initiatives.
Meanwhile, Australia continues to pursue renewable energy advancements, recently announcing new emissions reduction targets for 2035 as part of its commitments under the Paris Agreement. The country is also vying to host the UN’s annual climate summit in 2026.
Forrest’s involvement in climate activism has drawn attention, particularly concerning his business ventures. His company aimed to invest billions into green hydrogen and battery manufacturing in the US, but plans were curtailed following Trump’s election. As reported, Fortescue wrote off $244 million in clean energy investments after halting over $1 billion worth of hydrogen projects.
His advocacy extends beyond climate change. Forrest has emerged as a leading voice on various environmental issues, including plastic pollution and industrial decarbonization. During Climate Week in New York, he has participated in numerous forums addressing these pressing topics.
In a related matter, Forrest was questioned about his connections to a California lawsuit against ExxonMobil. The lawsuit claims that Exxon engaged in deceptive practices regarding the recyclability of single-use plastics. Forrest acknowledged the scrutiny, stating, “Yes, I find people who are willing to stand up to the corporate giants and they de-legitimise that by coming straight after me.”
As discussions on climate action gain momentum, Forrest’s remarks highlight the ongoing tensions between environmental advocacy and political rhetoric. His challenge to Trump reflects a growing urgency among activists to confront misinformation and drive meaningful change in climate policy.
