Drilled The Black Thread, Ep 3: Challenging the Narratives
Oct 27, 2025
Anna Karen Sather, a journalist and project leader at the Norwegian Climate Foundation, critiques the myths of Norway's oil narrative, including dispelling claims of 'climate-friendly' production and the necessity of oil for economic health. Anne Catherine Vårger, Climate Policy Manager at Offshore Norway, shares insights on the industry's climate targets and carbon capture solutions. Together, they unravel the complexities of Norwegian oil's role in the energy transition and challenge the sustainability of current fossil fuel reliance.
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Production Emissions vs Use-Phase Emissions
- The claim that Norwegian oil is 'climate-friendly' highlights production emissions while hiding that combustion causes ~97% of total emissions.
- Choosing Norwegian oil does not change the CO2 released when it is burned, so production cleanliness is a partial truth.
Gas-for-Coal Substitution Is Short-Term
- The argument that Norwegian gas replaces coal and lowers emissions overlooks that most gas isn't used for power and competes with renewables.
- Short-term coal-to-gas swaps can delay renewables and lock in gas infrastructure.
'Stand On Shoulders' Frames A Choice
- Claiming the oil industry is essential for a green transition obscures the policy choice between more fossil fuels or more renewables.
- Skills and capital are limited, so doubling down on oil risks crowding out renewable investment.