JUST IN: Greta Thunberg Slams Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish for Flying Private Jets to ‘Eco-Friendly’ Concerts, Calling It a Betrayal of Her Generation’s Climate Fight

Greta Thunberg Slams Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish for Flying Private Jets to ‘Eco-Friendly’ Concerts, Calling It a Betrayal of Her Generation’s Climate Fight

Climate activist Greta Thunberg has ignited a heated debate after calling out global pop superstars Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish for what she describes as “performative environmentalism.” Thunberg criticized the singers for reportedly using private jets to travel between shows that are branded as “eco-friendly” and “sustainable,” arguing that such actions undermine the urgent fight against climate change.

Speaking at a youth climate summit in Stockholm, Thunberg didn’t hold back. “You can’t fly private jets across continents and then tell your fans to save the planet,” she said. “It’s not just hypocrisy—it’s a betrayal of my generation and the generations after us who will face the consequences.”

‘Greenwashed’ Concerts Under Scrutiny

Both Swift and Eilish have previously made headlines for incorporating sustainability into their tours. Eilish’s Happier Than Ever world tour boasted eco-friendly merchandise and recycling initiatives, while Swift has championed renewable energy partnerships for her ongoing Eras Tour. However, climate activists point out that private aviation remains one of the most carbon-intensive ways to travel, overshadowing many of these efforts.

Reports surfaced last month that both artists had taken multiple short-haul private jet flights between concert stops, sparking backlash online. Critics argue that the environmental gains from sustainable tour practices are dwarfed by the emissions from private jets, which emit up to 14 times more CO2 per passenger than commercial flights.

Fans Divided as Debate Intensifies

The controversy has divided fans. Many defend Swift and Eilish, citing the demanding logistics of global tours and the safety concerns that come with commercial travel for high-profile celebrities. Others agree with Thunberg, saying that true leadership in the climate movement requires difficult sacrifices—especially from influential figures.

On social media, hashtags like #ClimateHypocrisy and #FlyCommercial began trending within hours of Thunberg’s comments. Some fans even suggested that artists should explore greener alternatives, such as sustainable aviation fuel or advanced rail networks, for regional travel.

Thunberg’s Broader Message

This isn’t the first time Thunberg has called out celebrities for climate hypocrisy. Over the years, she has criticized corporations, political leaders, and influencers for what she terms “greenwashing”—publicly embracing climate-conscious messages while failing to make meaningful changes.

“We are in a crisis,” Thunberg said in her closing remarks. “No amount of PR spin or carbon offsets will change the fact that private jets are a symbol of the overconsumption that got us here.”

What Comes Next?

Neither Swift nor Eilish has publicly responded to Thunberg’s remarks, though insiders suggest both teams are considering statements addressing the concerns. Environmental groups, meanwhile, are using the controversy to call for stricter regulations on private aviation and more transparency around celebrity travel emissions.

As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: for many young climate activists, symbolic gestures are no longer enough. The demand is for authentic action—and for celebrities to lead by example.