offshore oil
North Sea countries lag in aligning drilling policies with climate goals
None of the major North Sea oil and gas producers are set to halt drilling early enough to meet the global heating target, a stark discrepancy highlighted by a recent report.
In short:
- The UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark have not matched their fossil fuel extraction policies with their climate commitments.
- Norway and the UK are notably behind, with aggressive new oil and gas exploration that contradicts the Paris climate agreement's objectives.
- Denmark shows the most promise by setting a deadline for ending oil and gas production and leading international efforts to phase out fossil fuels.
Key quote:
"Failure to address these issues not only undermines international climate goals but also jeopardizes the liveability of our planet."
— Silje Ask Lundberg, Oil Change International
Why this matters:
North Sea oil drilling has been a significant part of Europe's energy strategy for decades, but it increasingly finds itself at the crossroads of economic interests and environmental concerns. As the world moves towards a more sustainable and low-carbon energy future, the role of North Sea oil drilling continues to evolve. The decisions made by countries in the region will not only impact their own energy landscapes and economies but also contribute to global efforts to address climate change.
“Code Red” for climate means reducing US oil and gas production: Derrick Z. Jackson.
Oil companies offer $382M for drilling rights in Gulf of Mexico in last offshore sale before 2025
A coming oil crash? Offshore permits hit 19-year low under Biden
The Biden administration has green-lighted a record low number of new offshore oil wells, a data point that could inflame the already fierce debate over President Joe Biden’s throttling of the aging offshore oil sector in the Gulf of Mexico.
Remote sensors see NO2 ‘hot spots’ from offshore oil activity
Offshore oil is about to surge
Oil executives love to talk about the energy transition. But for all the platitudes about technologies such as hydrogen and carbon capture, most are doubling down on what they know best. Oil.
Growing body of research suggests offshore oil's methane pollution is underestimated
New technologies are allowing for actual measurements of oil and gas methane pollution like never before, whether from leaks or intentional flaring and venting.