A new book titled “Controligarchs” is shedding light on the alleged ulterior motives behind Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates’ investments in patented fertilizers, fake meat, and U.S. farmland. According to investigative journalist Seamus Bruner, who authored the book, Gates’ actions are not aimed at saving the planet from climate change but rather at increasing his own wealth. The book examines how billionaires like Gates exert control over the levers of power in America and how their actions affect the everyday lives of average citizens.
Bruner’s research reveals that Gates has been buying up American farmland and investing in synthetic dairy and lab-grown meats under the guise of combating climate change. However, Bruner argues that these efforts are actually about consolidating control over the food market, rather than being genuine solutions to environmental issues. Gates’ investments in patented seeds, fertilizers, and now meat alternatives have raised concerns about the monopolization of the food supply and the potential benefits for wealthy investors such as Gates, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and BlackRock.
The book also delves into Gates’ connection to the “Green Revolution,” a series of agricultural advances funded by the Rockefellers in the 1940s. While these advances initially helped alleviate poverty and starvation, they also led to new problems like pollution, resource exhaustion, and the consolidation of small-scale farms into corporate-controlled ones. Bruner argues that rather than taking responsibility for these issues, the controligarchs, including Gates, are now claiming to have the solutions to the climate crisis through patented products that enrich themselves further.
One chapter of the book focuses on the “war on farmers,” highlighting the outrage of farmers worldwide over restrictions on traditional and affordable crop nutrients. Bruner reveals that these restrictions were implemented after Gates and his associates secured intellectual property rights for replacement fertilizers. Additionally, the author uncovers Gates’ extensive investments in American farmland, totaling over $1 billion, as well as his pursuit of water rights and water treatment technologies, crucial components for controlling the agricultural industry.
Furthermore, the book warns that Gates’ next target is the synthetic meat industry, with investments in companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods. Despite the lack of widespread consumer acceptance for these products, Gates has already invested millions and holds numerous patents in this area. Bruner notes the irony that while Gates promotes fermented fungi and lab-grown meats for the general public, he and other controligarchs continue to enjoy traditional animal-based foods.
The article reached out to the Gates Foundation for comment but did not receive a response by the time of publication. The book, which offers a critical perspective on Gates’ climate change efforts, raises questions about the true motivations behind his investments and their impact on the environment and small-scale farmers.
Brianna Herlihy is a politics writer for Digital.
