Controversy Erupts Over Tax-Payer Funded Research on Star Wars and Climate Change

Academic Outrage

Recently, boffins have come under fire for receiving £200,000 in tax-payers' money to study the impact of Star Wars on climate change. The project, funded by UK Research and Innovation, delves into the environmental effects of the iconic franchise.

Questionable Research

The Open University project not only explores the impact of fictional characters like R2-D2 but also analyzes the environmental footprint of props and costumes used in the films. Critics have raised concerns about the validity and relevance of such research.

Academic Defense

Academics involved in the project argue that it contributes to a broader study on environmental, militaristic, and socioeconomic themes within the Star Wars universe. They highlight the long-lasting emissions produced in creating digital versions of characters like R2-D2.

Public Outcry

Andrew Montford from Net Zero Watch criticized the project, calling it a misuse of public funds and a way to provide academic jobs under the guise of climate change research. Joanna Marchong from the TaxPayers' Alliance echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for funded research to focus on legitimate scientific endeavors.