More investors join call for Exxon Mobil to go green

A bigger crowd of activist investors are gathering around Irving, Texas-based Exxon Mobil (NYSE: XOM), calling for the oil giant to put more cash into renewable energy.

Nineteen investors controlling about 1.7 percent of Exxon Mobil have announced that they are backing resolutions that would push the company to address climate change risks and opportunities, and separate the roles of chairman and CEO.

The move comes three weeks after descendants of the company's founder, John D. Rockefeller, said they would vote to make changes at the firm (see Rockefellers push for more renewables at Exxon Mobil).

The 15 members of the Rockefeller family involved in the shareholder activism did not disclose their stakes in Exxon Mobil.

"Exxon Mobil's go-slow approach in addressing greenhouse gas reductions and investments in renewable energy sources places long-term shareholder value at risk," said California State Treasurer Bill Lockyer.

Lockyer serves on the board at the California Public Employees' Retirement System, or CalPERS, and the California State Teachers' Retirement System, or CalSTRS, both of which have come out in favor of a green push at Exxon Mobil.

"Instead of dragging its feet, Exxon Mobil should be taking the lead in providing long-term climate solutions," said Lockyer.

Other activist investors include the New York State Common Retirement Fund, the New York City Retirement System, and the Connecticut Retirement Plans and Trust Funds.

The resolutions will be voted on at Exxon Mobil's annual meeting on May 28 in Dallas.