The study found that ExxonMobil, General Electric, Caterpillar and Boeing are among companies that play both sides of the fence, supporting groups that promote climate change science as well as those that seek to undercut it. Oil companies and utilities, not surprisingly, are among the heaviest contributors to research centers and trade groups that seek to delay government action on climate change. The scientists’ group said their report highlighted the need for greater transparency in corporate political contributions and spending on issue-driven advertising. Their findings were endorsed by Representative Chris Van Hollen, Democrat of Maryland, the House sponsor of the so-called Disclose Act, which would require more complete and timely disclosure of political spending.
