Transport yourself back to 1982, the opening day of Disney’s Epcot world debuted the Universe of Energy, a Pavillion that explored the various uses and sectors of energy. Amongst the rides in this new land was ‘Ellen’s Energy Adventure’ featuring the titular Ellen DeGeneres, as well as Bill Nye, Alex Trebek, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Johnny Gilbert. Centered around the journey of energy, the ride explored the origins of energy production, how it is sourced, and the importance of incorporating renewable energy resources, which at the time, was incredibly groundbreaking research.
During the ride, there was a significant distinction made between the uses and impacts of fossil fuels, such as natural gas, coal, and petrol vs the importance of sustainable sources such as hydroelectric and solar power. Whilst we have come a long way in scientific research since 1982, entering a period of no return where the implementation of renewable energy resources is a necessity, the message of the ride still stands – promoting sustainable energy whilst emphasizing the destructive nature of fossil fuels.
Despite its emphasis on renewable energy and its role in educating the children that visited Epoct, the ride was shut down in August 2017. However, this decision amounted to years of discrepancies between the objectives of the ride and its funding sources; two entities promoting contrasting messages about energy sources.
In 2001, Epcot decided to display the logo of the company that funded ‘Ellen’s Energy Adventure’ when undergoing refurbishments. This company was revealed to be ExxonMobil – a leading international oil and gas company with such a dominating presence that the company was listed 3rd in the 2016 Forbes Global 2000 table. After undergoing immense scrutiny, in 2004, ExxonMobil stopped its 22-year long funding of the Pavillion and all ties between the company and the Universe of Energy were cut and removed.
For a ride that promoted the importance of renewable energy, and a company monetarily succeeding from fossil fuel production, it is unsurprising that the ride has remained hidden in memory. The correlation between ExxonMobil’s success and the degenerative impact of fossil fuels on the planet is particularly eye-raising on a scientific research level.
Whilst the ride opened in 1982, promoting the importance of renewable energy, funding was still being supplied by a company whose entire fortune was dependent on the production of fossil fuels. More significantly, the corruption within Exxon runs deeper than this as Exxon’s scientists even predicted that unless the production and usage of fossil fuels were reduced, we could expect ‘noticeable temporary changes’. Steven Knisely, at Exxon Research and Engineering, also revealed in 1979 that ‘the potential problem is great and urgent…it is very clear that immediate research is neccessary”.
Since these statistics have been revealed, Exxon has been targeted with several lawsuits, conducted by US states, to encourage the company to take accountability for their actions, as well as recognize the enormous consequences of their hesitancy over their scientific research. The consequence of the excessive usage of fossil fuels is a significant problem we are navigating today, reaching the point of no return as we have seen significant temperature increases, freak weather conditions, mass deforestation, and animal extinction. These lawsuits are demanding these companies to take ownership of their actions and most importantly fund projects to mediate the damage caused by fossil fuels. Additionally, lawsuits are filed for these companies to implement action to prevent the burning of fossil fuels.
However, there have appeared to be over 20 lawsuits targeting these companies also exposing the mass of lies and deceit that has obscured scientific information that advocates for the immense reduction of fossil fuel usage.
The controversial behavior runs deep within this industry highlighted by American environmentalist, author, and journalist, Bill McKibben, who identified these instances as ‘the most consequential cover-up in US history’. So whilst the deceit might start at Disney, it is important that children are aware of this mysterious ride that went missing under misaligned ethics. As youth activism morphs into one of the most crucial pillars required to prevent increasing climate change issues, it is crucial these large companies are called out for their sponsors, to ensure that the deceit does not perpetuate past this crisis.
