NatWest Bank is bracing for a contentious annual general meeting (AGM) in Edinburgh as investors and climate scientists rally against what they term 'climate backtracking.' The bank has faced criticism for easing restrictions on lending to the oil and gas sector and dropping decarbonisation targets without adequate justification. Campaign group ShareAction is spearheading the protest, urging stakeholders to vote against board members, including chair Rick Haythornthwaite. Notably, the Church of England has joined the campaign, highlighting a growing concern among investors managing approximately $1.4 trillion in assets. ShareAction plans to present letters at the AGM, including one signed by 70 climate experts, urging NatWest to restore its climate commitments. Recent policy changes include the removal of a ban on financing oil and gas companies lacking credible transition plans and the abandonment of targets for sectors like aluminium and cement. Jeanne Martin, head of banking at ShareAction, emphasized the dangers of NatWest's retreat from climate leadership, stating it undermines public trust and exacerbates the climate crisis. In response, NatWest has reiterated its commitment to reducing its climate impact and engaging with stakeholders to refine its policies.