Fossil Fuels
Coverage of Fossil Fuels in the Nexus archive.
- The ex-France player who swapped blue for green
Mathieu Flamini, former Arsenal and French international soccer player and CEO of GF Biochemicals, argues that the EU should not weaken environmental policies like the Emissions Trading System to boost competitiveness. He advocates for transitioning from fossil fuels to bio-based chemicals to address pollution and strategic autonomy issues.
- Environmental groups worry proposed rule before state utility regulators could chill debate on fossil fuels, data centers
The Louisiana Public Service Commission is considering a rule requiring groups to disclose out-of-state funding for interventions in utility regulatory proceedings, citing concerns about foreign interference and energy dominance. Critics, including Commissioner Davante Lewis, argue the rule could suppress debate on fossil fuels and data centers by limiting participation.
- Renewables had a record year
Renewables were the largest source of global energy supply growth in 2025, driven by solar energy which accounted for 72% of the increase. China set new records in solar and wind energy but is stockpiling fossil fuels, while U.S. emissions rose 3.2% and battery storage costs fell 45%. The Iran war accelerated efforts to reduce reliance on Gulf oil and gas.
- Six charts show how clean power was world’s largest source of new energy in 2025
Clean power was the largest source of new energy in 2025, with wind and solar combined contributing more than any individual fossil fuel. Fossil fuels met 86.2% of global energy supply but faced record-low shares, while electricity demand grew 3% with all new power from low-carbon sources. China generated more power than the US, EU, and India combined.
- The expensive twist in Trump's campaign against wind energy
The Trump administration is paying energy developers to abandon wind projects and invest in fossil fuels through a federal buyback campaign. This effort represents a shift away from renewable energy initiatives.
- Petrobras head says Brazil must choose between fossil fuel phaseout and tax revenue
Petrobras head Magda Chambriand stated Brazil must choose between phasing out fossil fuels and preserving tax revenue from the sector, highlighting the country's conflicting climate and economic priorities. Brazil promotes fossil fuel transition in international forums but invests in new drilling, including near the Amazon River, while President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva supports these economic developments. Environmental groups criticize Chambriand's stance for undermining climate goals.
- California intends to sue Trump administration over deal to end offshore wind project
California plans to sue the Trump administration over its deal to terminate an offshore wind project, arguing the move jeopardizes the state's clean energy goals. The administration bought back the lease for Golden State Wind, a floating offshore wind project, and is shifting investments toward fossil fuels. California has committed to developing 25 gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2045.
- As heatwave sweeps across Europe, UN urges AI firms to 'come clean' on environmental footprint
UN chief Antonio Guterres urged AI firms to disclose their environmental footprint and criticized fossil fuels for driving climate and energy crises amid a European heatwave. A UN study highlighted that AI facilities will consume more electricity than all but 10 countries by 2025.
- UN chief urges AI firms to 'come clean' over environmental footprint
UN chief Antonio Guterres urged AI firms to disclose their environmental impact and warned that fossil fuels are driving climate and energy crises. He highlighted Europe's second heatwave in two months and the 11 hottest years on record.
- New York’s green energy rethink is a lesson for the UK
New York is reevaluating its green energy policies due to challenges from AI data centres and electricity shortages, which may serve as a lesson for the UK. The state is reducing its opposition to fossil fuels in response to these issues.
- Mexico, Italy and others see up to two more months of heat stress than in the 1970s, study says
Mexico, Italy, Kenya, and other regions now experience one to two additional months of heat stress compared to the 1970s, according to a study in Nature Climate Change. The research attributes this increase to climate change driven by fossil fuel emissions, with heat stress measured using factors like temperature, humidity, and wind speed. Some areas, including Southern Africa and parts of the U.S., face up to 50 more days annually of strong heat stress.
- Mexico, Italy and others see up to two more months of heat stress than in the 1970s, study says
Mexico, Italy, Kenya, and other regions are experiencing up to two additional months of heat stress compared to the 1970s, according to a study in Nature Climate Change. The research attributes this increase to climate change from fossil fuel use, with heat stress days worsening due to higher temperatures and humidity.
- Are injuries from wind turbines common?
Injuries from wind turbines are not common, as collapses or blade failures are extremely rare. Wind power causes significantly fewer deaths per unit of electricity compared to fossil fuels.
- Energy crisis: Time for the EU's Independence Day?
The Middle East conflict highlights Europe's reliance on imported fossil fuels, with rising energy prices threatening economic growth and inflation. Investments in renewable energy are now framed as critical for Europe's competitiveness and strategic independence.
- Fossil Fuels Are 40% of Freight Shipping Tonnage, but Half Its Fuel Use
Fossil fuels account for 40% of freight shipping tonnage but consume 50% of the fuel used in the industry. The article highlights the disparity between cargo volume and energy consumption in shipping.
- Africa Builds Its Own Bank for Oil and Gas as Western Money Retreats
The Africa Energy Bank is set to launch in 2026 to fund oil and gas projects as Western lenders reduce financing for fossil fuels in Africa. The initiative aims to fill a financial gap left by Western institutions retreating from oil and gas investments on the continent.
- Push for electrification finally takes centre stage in pre-Cop31 climate talks
Electrification of transportation, heating, cooling, and heavy industry is highlighted as a key strategy to phase out fossil fuels, which currently supply 80% of global energy. The topic gained prominence at pre-Cop31 climate talks in Bonn, marking a shift from its previous status as a niche focus in climate action.
- United Nations Climate Talks in Bonn Marked by ‘Sidestepping and Stalling’
The United Nations Climate Talks in Bonn were marked by concerns over U.S. policies and military actions, which influenced the negotiations despite the U.S. not sending a federal delegation. The absence of a U.S. delegation did not prevent its foreign and economic policy from shaping the talks, generating both anxiety and hope for a faster transition from fossil fuels.
- US public still favours action on climate change despite Trump’s fossil fuel drive
Two-thirds of Americans express concern about climate change, though media coverage does not reflect this level of public worry. Despite President Trump's push for fossil fuel expansion and reduced climate policies, the American public continues to support action on the climate crisis, according to experts and polling.
- The court told us to come back later. We are out of time
Twenty-two young Americans are suing President Donald Trump over executive orders promoting fossil fuels and suppressing climate science, arguing the policies harm their health and future. A federal court acknowledged their 'children’s health emergency' but the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed their case as 'speculative,' requiring them to challenge each policy individually.
- Geopolitics is complicating the green transition – and China’s moment
Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are accelerating the transition to renewable energy by prompting governments and businesses to reassess fossil fuel reliance and supply chain vulnerabilities. China is emerging as the primary beneficiary of this shift.
- Geopolitics is complicating the green transition – and China’s moment
Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are accelerating the transition to renewable energy due to concerns about energy security and fragile supply routes. China is emerging as the principal beneficiary of this shift.
- Australia can switch from fossil fuel exports to renewables, says next Cop president
Australia's climate minister, Chris Bowen, stated the country must transition from fossil fuel exports to renewable energy to adapt to a changing global landscape. He emphasized Australia's potential to lead in reducing emissions and export clean energy products, citing growth in domestic renewables and batteries.
- Europe’s new energy director calls for ‘real electricity revolution’
France’s Céline Gauer, as Europe’s new energy director, is advocating for a significant transition away from fossil fuels. She aims to lead a 'real electricity revolution' to transform energy systems.
- The Terrible Combined With the Good
The Ratepayer Protection Act, a bill in the North Carolina legislature, combines provisions to limit data center growth with incentives for fossil fuel use. The bill is described as merging two opposing ideas, according to an article featuring insights from Vernon Loeb and Lisa Sorg.
- Colombia’s presidential runoff could impact the future of the Amazon rainforest and fossil fuels
Colombia’s June 21 presidential runoff between Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella could determine the country’s approach to Amazon conservation, fossil fuel development, and Indigenous rights. Cepeda aligns with President Gustavo Petro’s policies to protect the Amazon and reduce fossil fuel reliance, while de la Espriella, endorsed by Donald Trump, advocates for expanding extractive industries like fracking.
- Colombia’s presidential runoff could impact the future of the Amazon rainforest and fossil fuels
Colombia’s presidential runoff features Iván Cepeda, an ally of President Gustavo Petro, and Abelardo de la Espriella, endorsed by Donald Trump. The election could influence policies on the Amazon rainforest, fossil fuel development, and Indigenous communities.
- Colombia's presidential runoff could impact the future of the Amazon rainforest and fossil fuels
Colombia's June 21 presidential runoff between Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella will determine the country's approach to Amazon rainforest conservation, fossil fuel development, and Indigenous rights. Cepeda supports Petro's policies to limit oil/gas exploration and promote renewables, while de la Espriella advocates for expanding extractive industries and fracking. The election follows Colombia's hosting of a global fossil fuel transition summit under President Gustavo Petro.
- GUY ADAMS investigates whether BP has a death wish: First the once-great British oil giant declared war on fossil fuels - before a humiliating U-turn. Now it's fired the straight talking chairman brought in to fix the mess
BP, once a leading British oil company, declared opposition to fossil fuels but later reversed its stance. The company has since dismissed its straightforward chairman tasked with resolving the situation.
- Green molecules – How can they strengthen Europe’s energy security and industrial competitiveness? [Advocacy Lab]
Europe is addressing energy security and industrial competitiveness by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, with green molecules highlighted as a key solution. Geopolitical instability has intensified the need for a resilient, sustainable energy supply as part of the EU's strategic agenda.
- Seven states sue US for paying $1bn to make Total exit wind power
Seven states, led by New York, are suing the US government over a $1 billion payment to French company Total to exit wind power and reinvest in fossil fuels, challenging the Trump administration's decision.
- Blue states sue to block Trump’s deal to cancel wind lease in exchange for oil investments
Six blue states sued the Trump administration to block a deal that would pay a French company to invest in fossil fuels in exchange for canceling its offshore wind farm rights. The states seek to reverse the agreement, which involves swapping wind lease cancellation for oil investments.
- Urgent clarity on policy needed on the energy transition
The article highlights the need for urgent policy clarity to drive the energy transition, emphasizing that the impact of the Middle East war underscores the importance of certainty in shifting away from fossil fuels.
- Global heating is making hajj ever more dangerous, report finds
Rising heat in Saudi Arabia due to fossil fuel emissions is increasing dangerous temperatures during the Hajj pilgrimage, with 40C temperatures now occurring in May instead of just summer. A study warns that without reducing fossil fuels, the Hajj could face extreme heat year-round by the end of the century.
- Macron announces big investments at France's 'electrification team' meeting
French President Emmanuel Macron announced significant private investments, including a €1 billion EV project from Stellantis, and 200 companies joined a national pact to increase electricity's share in France's energy mix to 60% by 2030. BP also fired its chairman, Albert Manifold, over governance concerns.
- Extreme heat in Europe ‘a brutal reminder’ of climate crisis, UN chief says
UN climate chief Simon Stiell warned that extreme heat in Europe, including record-breaking temperatures in France and the UK in May, is a 'brutal reminder' of the climate crisis driven by fossil fuel use. He emphasized that burning coal, oil, and gas is the primary cause of intensifying heatwaves.
- Denver has a plan to heat and cool buildings with — wait for it — sewage
Denver is implementing a plan to heat and cool buildings using sewage as a method to reduce climate pollution. The city's buildings are a major source of emissions due to fossil fuel reliance.
- Putin left China, without a pipeline deal. Why didn’t the Hormuz crisis open the valve?
Putin left China without a pipeline deal as geopolitical tensions and the Hormuz Strait crisis highlight China's reliance on Middle Eastern energy imports and the urgent need for alternative fuel and transport solutions.
- Iran war accelerates move away from fossil fuels
The Iran war is accelerating energy-importing countries' shift away from fossil fuels toward clean energy. BloombergNEF projects global oil demand will plateau in the early 2030s while natural gas demand continues rising, with $2.3 trillion invested in clean energy in 2025, though investment would need to double to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
- ASEAN nations return to fossil fuels, back away from net zero plans
ASEAN nations are shifting back to fossil fuels due to rising gas prices and tightening supplies, leading utilities to rely on coal as a familiar alternative. This move marks a step away from net zero plans. The change is driven by availability and familiarity of coal.