The ruling mandates that emissions from burning fossil fuels must now be factored in when approving new drilling sites. This landmark case emerged from a challenge by Sarah Finch, representing the Weald Action Group, an environmental organization campaigning against onshore oil and gas activities in south-east England. Let’s delve into the implications of this ruling.
1. The Horse Hill Project: A Crucial Test Case
At the heart of this legal battle lies the Horse Hill oil drilling project in Surrey. Initially granted planning permission by Surrey County Council in 2019, the project faced opposition from local campaigners like Sarah Finch. They argued that the environmental impact assessment (EIA) should consider not only carbon emissions during oil extraction but also the downstream impact when the oil is burned. The Supreme Court’s ruling now underscores the need to assess combustion emissions in EIAs for extraction projects.
2. A Safer, Fairer Future
Following the court’s decision, Sarah Finch expressed her elation, calling it a “welcome step towards a safer, fairer future.” The ruling emphasizes that all oil produced, once refined, should fall within the scope of environmental impact assessments. Lord Leggatt, in his judgment, highlighted that there was no reasonable basis for excluding combustion emissions from consideration. This shift recognizes the interconnectedness of extraction and consumption phases.
3. Not Unlawful, but Essential Consideration
Importantly, the court did not declare fossil fuel emissions unlawful. Instead, it emphasized their inclusion in EIAs. These assessments play a crucial role in evaluating a project’s environmental effects. Justice Leggatt clarified that quantifiable emissions from burning oil significantly impact climate change and should be part of the assessment process. This ruling sets a precedent for future projects, urging a holistic approach to environmental impact evaluation.
4. Implications for the Industry
The ruling reverberates beyond Horse Hill. Major oil and gas companies, including Shell, are now reevaluating their UK operations. Tightening environmental and taxation laws have prompted discussions about relocating to the US1. As the industry grapples with this shift, questions arise about the viability of North Sea drilling and the need for sustainable alternatives.
5. Celebrating a Landmark Win
Campaigners celebrated outside the court, recognizing the significance of this victory. By considering downstream emissions, the Supreme Court has signaled a fundamental change in how we assess fossil fuel projects. As the UK navigates its energy transition, this ruling challenges the status quo and underscores the urgency of addressing climate impact at every stage of oil and gas production.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Sky News
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