Australian Climate Scientists Face Death Threats

And you thought the climate debate was nasty here in the United States! In Australia, leading climate researchers are opting for unlisted phone numbers, scrubbing their social media sites, and even going into hiding after receiving numerous death threats.

Prof David Koroly, of the University of Melbourne's school of Earth science, told the ABC that he receives threats whenever he is interviewed by the media. "It is clear that there is a campaign in terms of either organised or disorganised threats to discourage scientists from presenting the best available climate science on television or radio," he said.

The threats of violence come amidst a nationwide debate on putting a price on carbon--a policy advocated by Australian prime minister Julia Gillard and very publicly supported in a nationwide TV ad by actress Cate Blanchett. The policy has been harshly attacked in the Australian media--a large stake of which is owned by mining mogul Gina Rinehart. Among the lead attackers is Andrew Bolt, a widely read columnist and TV  host--who is also the butt of this awesome satirical rap video featuring genuine Australian climate scientists. (Please don't watch if you're offended by strong language.)

 

--Paul Rauber