Norway boosts oil production, defying environmental concerns

In a move that contradicts its environmental image, Norway has significantly increased oil drilling licenses, indicating a surge in hydrocarbon extraction.

Atle Staalesen reports for the Barents Observer.

In short:

Norway awarded 62 new oil and gas drilling licenses, a notable increase from the 47 licenses in 2022.
This expansion signifies Norway's highest level of oil and gas production since 2010, with peak production expected in 2025.
Despite environmental concerns, the Norwegian government emphasizes the country's role as a stable energy supplier and job creator.

Key quote:

“This is important for both employment and value creation, as well as for facilitating Norway’s role as a stable energy supplier to Europe."

— Terje Aasland, Norway’s Minister of Energy

Visit EHN's energy section for more top news about energy, climate and health.

www.ehn.org

Norway boosts oil production, defying environmental concerns

Fuel on the fire: Why oil companies are profiting as the world gets dangerously hot

Trump wants to fast track AI

Data centers use more power in the US than in any other country

Canadian Gas CEOs are hyping AI data centers to investors as a lifeline for their industry

Alberta's new pipeline deal could allow Canadian oil to reach new countries. But will they want it?

As Trump buyouts shake offshore wind industry, states hope developers stay in the game

Rural Nevada counties especially vulnerable to Hoover Dam hydropower decline

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.