51-year-old Leonardo DiCaprio and 62-year-old billionaire Jeff Bezos have launched an ambitious initiative called the Phoenix Species Project, aimed at saving more than 100 critically endangered animal species. The project plans to partner with hundreds of local and international groups, including indigenous communities and governments. DiCaprio announced the initiative on Instagram, expressing gratitude to Bezos's fund.
However, less than 24 hours after announcing what the creators called "the largest philanthropic initiative in history dedicated to the recovery of critically endangered species," both men were hit with a wave of severe criticism. The public accused the initiators of trying to mask real ecological damage with PR stunts orchestrated by the ultra-wealthy, The Daily Beast writes.
Social media users have massively pointed out the organizers' carbon footprint. In comments on Reddit and Instagram, people expressed outrage: "They should give up their private jets and yachts, which pollute the environment more than an average person does in a lifetime."
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos's participation has drawn particular discontent. Critics note that the company's data centers are depleting local communities' water resources, destroying wildlife habitats, and driving up utility costs. "Isn't this just greenwashing so Amazon can keep destroying the environment, but with better PR?" wrote one user.
The actor, who has advocated for climate protection for years and donated millions to research, was accused of missing basic truths. One commenter caustically noted that DiCaprio starred in the satirical eco-film Don't Look Up, but himself "seems to have learned nothing from it."
Many characterized the project as "performative" and labeled it pure "propaganda," emphasizing that no amount of donations can offset the scale of destruction caused by the businesses and personal transport of such billionaires.
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