HEC Paris faces student criticism over environmental values

HEC Paris, France's first business school, is under scrutiny from students who accuse it of hypocrisy for maintaining partnerships with major polluting companies like TotalEnergies, BNP Paribas, and CapGemini. These students argue that the school's environmental commitments are undermined by its close ties to industries linked to climate change.

Students reject career paths aligned with polluting industries

Laure, a recent graduate, said she entered HEC Paris with strong ecological convictions but left as an anticapitalist, boycotting the school's prestigious "Carrefours" event. She criticized the event as a gathering of students and the most polluting companies, and noted that HEC promotes careers like financial analyst and supply chain manager, which she says conflict with ecological values.

HEC Paris's history and current student dissent

Founded in 1881, HEC Paris has long promised high salaries and rapid social mobility. But a group of eco-anxious students now refuse to participate in what they see as a system driving climate change. Journalists Lou Brayet and Grégoire Landoyer have uncovered allegations of greenwashing and internal censorship of political criticism at the school.

Students demand a reevaluation of HEC's role

In 2020, an open letter signed by 2,000 alumni and students called on the future director of HEC Paris to prioritize the school's environmental transition. Since 2021, HEC has introduced a course on "Planetary Boundaries" for L3 students, but critics argue it doesn't align with the market finance courses that teach opposing values.

Student protests highlight tensions over greenwashing

In May 2023, students occupied an auditorium during HEC Paris's "Climate Day" event, criticizing companies like Shell and TotalEnergies for funding fossil fuel projects. Augustin, an ex-student, called the event a "greenwashing festival," reflecting the growing discontent among students about the school's environmental stance.

Student collective rejects complicity with harmful industries

In 2025, a group of students formed the collective "High school of complicity," refusing to support a system they see as dangerous and harmful. Their actions, including banners, leaflets, and graffiti, aim to highlight the contradiction between their education and the careers they are expected to pursue.

SASI Master program criticized as insufficient

HEC Paris offers a SASI Master (for "sustainability and social innovation") program, introduced in 2015, focusing on "sustainable performance." However, students like Léo and Maëlle argue the program fails to address the fundamental flaws of the current economic system and is more of a superficial attempt to green the existing model.

Controversies around HEC's partnerships and leadership

François Gemenne, director of the SASI master and a former IPCC member, has faced criticism over a partnership with Saint-Gobain, a major emitter of greenhouse gases. Students argue that Gemenne's teachings lack a focus on solutions to climate change, despite his background in environmental science.

Eco careers face financial and social challenges

Eco-friendly careers are often less lucrative, and students like Constance and Charlotte express concerns about financial pressures and social expectations to conform. Charlotte admitted she might have to work at Thales to pay off student loans, even if it means compromising her values. Gemenne insists HEC does not promote profit at all costs, but the school's reliance on funding from the very industries it critiques remains a point of contention.