Although Elton John tried to defend Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s decision to use private jets, the couple has continued to receive backlash over the damage their flights may have caused the environment.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have not issued a statement addressing their getaway, but a Green Party MEP member claimed John’s excuse didn’t save the couple’s public image.

Molly Scott Cato claimed Harry and Meghan failed to remain true to their word after lecturing people about environmental issues. Although the “Saturday” singer said he made donations to Carbon Footprint™ so the trip would be “carbon neutral,” the Green Party MEP member claimed it doesn’t excuse the couple’s behavior.

“Offsetting is a bit of a cop-out, and frequent flying has the highest possible negative impact on the climate of any individual action,” she explained.

“Harry and Megan need to send a clear message that, faced with the climate emergency, children born today will have no future at all unless we change our lifestyle. That must mean far fewer trips abroad by plane,” Cato added.

The Green Party MEP member believes Meghan and Prince Harry could have avoided the negative attention if they would have vacationed in the UK. “It is disappointing that the Royals see the need to travel to foreign destinations by private jet, creating huge carbon emissions in the process,” she shared.

“Far better if they set a positive example by enjoying a stay-cation instead, promoting the many delights our country has to offer.”

Backlash over Meghan and Prince Harry’s private getaway comes amid reports the Duchess of Sussex will return from maternity leave in the fall. The former actress is expected to resume her royal duties after giving birth to baby, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor in May.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry
The Duchess of Sussex and the Duke of Sussex are pictured on May 19, 2018 in Windsor, England. Steve Parsons - WPA Pool/Getty Images
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