Shell’s Disguised Ad Campaigns

Anyone out there been looking through the weekend Canwest papers lately? – You may have noticed this great read.

It seems Shell Canada has taken it upon itself to explain climate change. Apparently scraping up and burning every glob of tar in Alberta is part of the solution. And a lot of nice photogenic people work for Shell too!

What I don't understand is why the company is so shy about letting us readers know it is paying Canwest to print full-page ads in its papers across the country.

On two occasions Shell lobbyists have tracked me down here in Ottawa. They have been very proud of their company's many innovations, efficiencies and cleaning up of pollution – they are often ahead of most other oil companies in Canada in this regard. So why not come right out and say, "these are ads we are paying for with some of the money we made selling oil?”

When they have come by the office they have always clearly identified themselves and I gave them a fair hearing.

Each time I acknowledged their leadership and appreciated that the company is helping us destroy the climate that sustains life a little less quickly than some other oil companies. Awkward smiles followed and we parted on good terms.

Elizabeth May taught me to respect individuals you disagree with and keep the communication pathways open.

Maybe that's why I felt hurt by this disguised ad campaign. I'd come to expect honesty.

Note: If you would like to express your concern about Shell's disguised ad campaign you can complain to Advertising Standards Canada.