Should the UK drill for new oil and gas during the climate crisis?
Jun 17, 2023
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Sarah Godwin and Lisa Scott-Conte discuss the legal battle against oil and gas drilling in Surrey. They highlight concerns about the visual impact, environmental consequences, and climate change considerations. Lisa Scott-Conte emphasizes the need for true carbon cost calculations and the devastating impact of burning fossil fuels. The podcast also explores the need for oil and gas in the UK and the government's goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
The Supreme Court's decision on considering greenhouse gas emissions in planning applications for drilling in Surrey could have far-reaching consequences for the UK oil and gas industry.
The debate over drilling for new oil and gas in the UK involves weighing the carbon intensity of domestic production against the need to reduce emissions and focus on renewable energy.
Deep dives
Opposition to Exploratory Drilling in Surrey
Exploratory drilling is being proposed in Surrey near Dunsfolden, which is concerning for local residents and environmental organizations like Protect at Dunsfold Limited. The drilling would disrupt the rural environment, causing air, water, and light pollution. The area, which is close to an area of outstanding natural beauty, is currently under review to become part of the AONB. The impact of the drilling on the landscape and the broader environmental consequences, such as flaring of gas and increased traffic, are major concerns for the opposition.
Legal Challenge and Consideration of Climate Change
Opponents of drilling at Horse Hill in Surrey have taken legal action, arguing that the climate change impact of the operation should have been thoroughly assessed. Surrey County Council approved the expansion plans without considering the downstream effects of burning the oil and gas. The case is now being heard in the Supreme Court, and if the judges rule in favor of considering greenhouse gas emissions in decision-making, it could have significant implications for fossil fuel extraction across the UK.
Debate on New Oil and Gas Exploration
The debate on whether to proceed with new oil and gas exploration in the UK continues. The Director of Policy, Government, and Public Affairs at UK onshore oil and gas argues that imported oil and gas is more carbon-intensive than domestic production. However, opponents emphasize the need to reduce carbon emissions and prioritize renewable energy. UK's Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero acknowledges the need for a transition to net zero but highlights the importance of a consistent and balanced approach considering both extraction and demand reduction.
Campaigners opposed to oil and gas exploration sites in Surrey have taken their fight to court - but what happens next could have much wider impacts on the oil and gas industry.
On this week's ClimateCast, host Tom Heap speaks to Sarah Godwin, from Protect Dunsfold, and Lisa Scott-Conte, who lives near a site in Horse Hill.
This case is due before Supreme Court judges next week who will decide if greenhouse gas emissions should be considered before planning applications are approved by authorities.
Tom also speaks to Charles McAllister from UK Onshore Oil and Gas - the industry’s trade association – and MP Grant Shapps, the Secretary of State for energy security and net zero.
Senior producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Paul Stanworth
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