A Good Lobby analysis found that small European public affairs and law firms extensively lobby for big oil companies, despite these clients representing only 1% of the industry's revenue. Several top spenders on influencing EU policy are on the payroll of oil and gas companies. The study suggests these firms can easily drop these clients without harming profits.
These firms often make public sustainability commitments that contrast sharply with their actions supporting fossil fuel clients.
Some companies, like Aula Europe and A2A, dispute their classification as fossil fuel companies, highlighting their investments in renewable energy. Others did not respond to requests for comment. The analysis highlights a lack of public and regulatory pressure on lobbyists to adopt greener practices. The researchers suggest that dropping fossil fuel clients would be a smart business strategy for these firms, attracting talent and avoiding potential regulatory crackdowns.
The report acknowledges that this is just one aspect of fossil fuel companies' influence on EU policymakers. Large in-house lobbying teams and industry associations also play significant roles. While a naming-and-shaming campaign might have limited impact, it could still hinder polluters’ ability to obstruct climate action by reducing the pool of available talent.