Greenpeace is suing the UK government over its unlawful oil and gas decision

Miranda Barrie

July 25, 2023

Today, Greenpeace lawyers are back in court challenging the UK government’s reckless decision to greenlight a new oil and gas licensing round, without properly checking the damage it will do to the climate.

The government ignored over 80 percent of the carbon emissions these licences will produce when the oil and gas is actually burnt. While the government is trying to pretend these emissions don’t exist, we’ll certainly feel their impact.

Just this weekend, thousands of holidaymakers have been evacuated from Greece because of wildfires. Large parts of Europe, Asia and North America are literally on fire – conditions that are directly caused by carbon emissions generated by the fossil fuel industry. Whether it’s soaring energy bills, spiking food prices, or being evacuated from a burning country, the climate crisis is affecting us all in very tangible ways.

Experts are clear, new oil and gas will be a disaster for the climate. And what’s more, it won’t do anything to bring down energy bills.

What we need is a government that will invest in a clean, affordable energy system fit for the 21st century with an upgraded grid, home insulation and cheap, clean renewable power. This is the only way we can tackle the cost of living crisis, guarantee our energy security, and keep a safe climate.

We refuse to sit around and watch this government throw more fuel on the fire. Politicians who have the courage to tackle these crises together will be rewarded at the ballot box when they offer people real leadership and a safe future for everyone.