US Department of Energy bans terms related to climate, sustainability

The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the U.S. Department of Energy has added words such as “green,” “decarbonization,” and the phrase “climate change” to a list of terms that employees are discouraged from using, in line with the political direction of the current U.S. administration, Politico reports, citing an internal memo to staff from the office.

“Please ensure that every member of your team is aware that this is the latest list of words to avoid — and continue to be conscientious about avoiding any terminology that you know to be misaligned with the Administration’s perspectives and priorities,” wrote Rachel Overbey, a Department of Energy spokesperson, in the memo.

The list includes words and phrases such as “green,” “sustainable/sustainability,” “energy transition,” “climate change.” The office also added “emissions,” as it reportedly carries negative connotations, and the phrase “carbon footprint.”

According to the report, officials are expected to follow these guidelines in public statements, internal communications, and reports submitted to federal agencies. The Department of Energy did not respond to Politico’s request for comment.

During a speech at a general political debate at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he does not believe warnings about climate change, calling it “the greatest hoax.”

By Vugar Khalilov