A recent report by Global Witness predicts up to 11.5 million excess heat-related deaths by 2100 due to emissions from oil and gas companies, highlighting the urgent need for a transition to renewable energy.
A recent study conducted by Global Witness has brought attention to the severe consequences associated with the emissions generated by major oil and gas companies, predicting up to 11.5 million excess heat-related deaths by 2100 if substantial measures to reduce fossil fuel extraction are not implemented. The analysis, leveraging a mortality cost model from Columbia University, underscores the necessity for rapid government and industry action to transition towards renewable energy sources. Highlighted within the findings is the current impact of heatwaves, worsened by climate change, which have resulted in thousands of fatalities worldwide, with particular risks posed to vulnerable groups like the elderly and outdoor workers.
In parallel, Glencore, a leading mining and trading entity, reported an 8.8% increase in carbon emissions in 2023, marking a significant departure from its recent trend of reducing emissions. This increase, amounting to 432.8 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, is primarily due to the expansion of coal production and the reopening of an oil refinery in South Africa. Despite this rise, Glencore remains committed to its environmental goals, including a 15% reduction in emissions by 2026 from 2019 levels, and has introduced ambitious future targets aimed at significantly diminishing its carbon footprint.
As the conversation around climate change intensifies, the findings from these developments serve to inform governments, corporations, and the public about the critical need for decisive action in addressing the ongoing climate crisis. Both scenarios highlight the dire implications of continued fossil fuel reliance and the vital importance of transitioning towards more sustainable energy practices to mitigate their impact on global warming and public health.
