Green groups up in arms against RBS’ 'greenwash'

The Royal Bank of Scotland, which is heavily involved in financing the global coal industry is likely to come in for flak from authors, activists and community groups today as they join climate change campaigners in an attack on the bank's climate policies.

In a letter published in The Herald today, environmental group, Friends of the Earth has received support from Scots author Iain Banks, impressionist and comedian Alistair McGowan, and British writer and environmentalist Tony Juniper, in it call for a boycott of financing for coal mining.

Support has also come from Christian Aid Scotland, the Indigenous Environment Network, and the Rainforest Action Network, among others.

Climate Week which is aimed at encouraging people to do their bit to protect the planet, has RBS as one of its main sponsors.

According to Climate Week's chief executive Kevin Steele Climate Week is aimed at showcasing the solutions that would enable people  to combat climate change and inspire action by many thousands of people during the other 51 weeks of the year.

According to the open letter ''while it's important to acknowledge such positive action, it is also vital to do what we can to make sure this isn't undermined by the actions of those who continue with business as usual in the global fossil fuel economy.''