Topic
fossil-fuels
Technology AI Could Help Fossil Fuel Firms Add Emissions Equal to Russia's, Study Finds
New research in npj Climate Action finds that AI's productivity gains for the oil and gas industry could increase global energy-related emissions by 1.2 to 4.8 percent, equal to Mexico's or Russia's annual emissions. The study, by former Microsoft sustainability workers, argues tech companies must measure 'enabled emissions' from their tools, not just operational emissions.
Commodities Chevron and Williams Bet Big on Data Centers as AI Fuels Gas Demand
WIRED reports that Williams and Chevron are expanding natural gas infrastructure for data centers as AI demand grows. BloombergNEF says US gas production must rise 36% by the mid-2030s. The plants could emit up to 21 million tons of greenhouse gases annually, according to permit applications.
Trade Australians Take UN Case Claiming Coal and Gas Exports Violate Human Rights
A group of ten Australians has filed a legal claim with the UN Human Rights Committee, arguing that Australia's continued export of coal and gas violates their human rights by contributing to extreme weather events. This is the first such claim since the International Court of Justice ruled in 2025 that countries can be sued for climate change. The claimants include a wildlife ecologist, a blind flood survivor, and an Indigenous elder.
Commodities Germany Reconsiders Coal Phase-Out as Gas Prices Surge Amid Iran Conflict
Germany, Europe's largest coal power user, is reconsidering its coal phase-out due to a surge in global gas prices following the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signalled a potential loosening of phase-out plans to ensure affordable electricity for industry. Energy firm LEAG welcomes the shift, while environmental researchers urge a faster transition to renewables.
Commodities Trump's $700m Coal Investment Amid Rising Energy Costs
Donald Trump has announced a $700 million investment to revive the US coal industry, citing national security concerns and rising energy costs. The initiative aims to protect existing coal plants and build new infrastructure.