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Oil platform in the North Sea: In order to still reach the 1.5 degree target, no further oil fields should actually be developed
Photo: Andy Buchanan/ AFP
Despite warnings about the consequences of climate change, Great Britain wants to make new oil and gas fields in the North Sea usable.
Business and Energy Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg announced new licensing for it on Friday, stressing the move is necessary for Britain's energy security.
The plan does not conflict with Britain's climate goals.
According to the competent authority, around 100 new licenses are to be issued.
Climate-friendly oil combustion?
However, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) considers compliance with the agreed 1.5 degree target to be possible only if no more new fossil fuel infrastructures are created.
The international community of states has agreed on this mark in order to avert the most catastrophic consequences of climate change.
However, London insists that the decision is even in the interest of the environment.
Rees-Mogg emphasized that the domestic combustion of oil and gas is more climate-friendly than importing it because there is no need for transport.
The co-leader of the opposition Green Party, Adrian Ramsey, said: "The government's claim that the goal of climate neutrality is being helped by burning more fossil fuels has no connection to reality." Scottish Prime Minister Nicola Sturgeon also criticized the Plans sharply and warned London to make “strict climate checks” the basis for decisions.
Last year, Great Britain, as the host of the world climate conference, presented itself as a pioneer and warned other countries to say goodbye to fossil fuels.
koe/dpa
