THE UK Government’s decision to authorise new oil and gas exploration has been found lawful in court.
It’s after Greenpeace argued Britain’s failure to assess the greenhouse gases produced by consuming oil and gas rendered the offshore energy plan unlawful.
But lawyers representing the UK Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said ministers were not required to assess end-use emissions, although they still considered them.
Representing the green activists at the hearing in July, Estelle Dehon KC added that ministers had failed to “assess reasonable alternatives” to new homegrown fossil fuels.
Britain’s first round for new oil and gas licensing was held last year, with Rosebank finally getting the green light in September.
Without more drilling, North Sea output would halve by 2030 leaving the UK 80% reliant on costly imports.
Lord David Holgate dismissed Greenpeace’s claim on Thursday.
Greenpeace has said they intent to appeal the decision, according to The Herald.
Philip Evans, Greenpeace UK’s climate campaigner, said: “If you told most people that the Government is allowed to approve new oil and gas while ignoring 80% of the emissions it would produce, they simply wouldn’t believe you.
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“This is completely irresponsible behaviour from ministers during a climate crisis. That’s why we will be appealing, and hope this ruling will be overturned.
“More oil and gas drilling will just make oil giants richer and the climate crisis worse.
“Instead, we urgently need to move to abundant, cheap, clean renewable power and prioritise insulating homes. This is the only way to tackle the cost of living, guarantee our energy security, and ensure a safer climate.”
