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Drilled

S8 Ep1 | The Boom

Mar 14, 2023
Kiana Wilburg, a reporter for Kaieteur News, delves into the complexities of Guyana's oil boom and its impact on the nation. She shares her journey from new reporter to industry expert following ExxonMobil's discovery off the coast. The discussion highlights the disparity between promises of economic prosperity and the harsh realities of environmental degradation. Wilburg emphasizes the challenges faced by journalists against corporate power and urges for transparency in oil deals while exploring the political and social transformations triggered by newfound wealth.
31:18

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Exxon's historical suppression of climate change awareness highlights a troubling pattern that conflicts with its current oil production initiatives in Guyana.
  • The oil discovery in Guyana has exacerbated political tensions and ethical concerns, revealing socioeconomic disparities and prompting aggressive confrontations among lawmakers.

Deep dives

ExxonMobil's Controversial Climate History

ExxonMobil's past involvement in climate change research reflects a troubling history of the company's practices. Internal documents revealed that Exxon scientists were aware of projected climate change impacts as early as the 1970s, yet the company actively worked to suppress public knowledge of these warnings. This reluctance to acknowledge climate change and its consequences has painted Exxon as a major player in environmental degradation. Despite this history, Exxon has launched oil production initiatives in Guyana, further raising concerns about the implications of fossil fuel extraction in a world already grappling with climate issues.

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