Exxon’s CEO Courts Climate Allies Amid Uncertain Politics
By Innocent Eneta
Darren Woods, CEO of Exxon Mobil Corp., is back in the spotlight at COP29, this time with a bolder agenda and a surprising climate pitch. Following his first appearance at COP28 in Dubai, where all nations pledged to “transition away from fossil fuels,” Woods is doubling down on his message that Exxon, which he calls an “energy company,” is ready to offer climate solutions.
Woods’ recent shift marks a surprising turn for Exxon, a company once notorious for questioning climate science. COP may be changing Woods’ stance, as he seeks to align with global leaders on climate action and push Exxon’s low-carbon initiatives.
With the political landscape in flux, including U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s pledge to roll back climate policies, Woods faces fresh challenges. This political uncertainty, he noted, makes long-term planning costly and difficult for Exxon’s projects, which often span decades. “The focus ought not to be on pulling in and out of the agreement,” Woods urged, advocating for Trump to uphold the Paris Agreement. If the U.S. withdraws, however, Exxon is prepared to pivot to international markets for its low-carbon solutions, addressing the needs of other nations that produce over 10% of global carbon emissions.
This year, Woods introduced a carbon accounting plan as Exxon continues to produce oil at record levels, positioning himself as a bridge between fossil fuel interests and climate advocates. Whether his COP appearance is more than just an act will be clearer when he discusses his plans in an upcoming interview on the Zero podcast this Thursday.
COP30 in Brazil may be the stage for Woods’ next climate engagement, depending on how his efforts resonate with the climate community this year. OmniHub Expands FMCG Reach, Unveiling Its 50th Distribution Hub
