DOZENS of former employees of fossil fuel companies are joining forces to share their disillusionment with the industry’s climate response and support professionals who may want to leave.

Around 50 people who previously worked at Shell, BP, TotalEnergies and Texaco have formed Life After Oil, a new coalition launching at an event in Westminster on Wednesday.

The founders argue that while fossil fuels play a critical role, the industry is shirking its responsibility to tackle climate change and accelerate the clean energy transition.

This follows major European oil firms weakening their climate commitments in recent years, contradicting International Energy Agency guidance.

Life After Oil founder Nick Smith said: “What binds our community together is a recognition that the major oil companies are failing to provide a sensible contribution to the conversation about how to respond to the fossil fuel dilemma.

“By blithely pointing to increased consumer demand for energy, they sidestep their own role in shaping markets, investment priorities and narratives.

“In doing so, [they] avoid the leadership responsibility that comes with their scale, capability and influence – to the detriment of both today’s workforce and future generations.”

Among those in the group, Arjan Keizer, a former Shell executive, said: “Prestige and salary matter far less than whether you can look your children in the eye in 20 years.

“The majority of employees want their companies to lead the transition.”

Jo Alexander, a geologist who left BP in 2015 after 10 years, said: “I had to decide if this was really a career I wanted to dedicate my life to.

“The obvious and unavoidable answer was no.”

Life After Oil’s website showcases members’ stories at lifeafteroil.net.

BP, TotalEnergies and Texaco-owner Chevron were approached for comment. Shell declined.