fossil fuels
Coverage of fossil fuels in the Nexus archive.
- Plastic fork made of sugar? It could help minimize harmful microplastics
A sugar fork has been suggested as a potential alternative to traditional plastics. Such alternatives that replace plastics made of fossil fuels are being seen by some as needed solutions for confronting global plastic pollution.
- Trump’s Anti-Wind Crusade Is Boosting US Gas
Trump's anti-wind stance is reported to be boosting US gas. Furthermore, the government has allegedly reached agreements with multiple wind developers to redirect funds toward fossil fuels.
- Fracking is not ‘responsible development’ of Ohio’s state parks and public lands
The article argues that claims by the oil and gas industry characterizing fracking in Ohio public lands as “responsible development” are false, asserting that these lands belong to all Ohioans. It advocates for a shift to reliable renewable energy sources like solar and wind, noting that supermajority lawmakers have allegedly expanded natural gas fracking despite its documented negative impacts on climate, water, and biodiversity.
- We must adapt to climate change while also tackling the root cause
The article argues for the necessity of both adapting to climate change through measures like wildfire-resistant land use and addressing the root cause of fossil fuel emissions. It criticizes a UK Telegraph columnist's claim that abandoning net-zero goals is acceptable, emphasizing that reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential to prevent worsening wildfires and global warming.
- Do solar plants require backup from fossil fuels?
Solar plants require backup energy sources, but these backups do not have to come from fossil fuels. The article clarifies that while solar energy needs supplemental power, it is not limited to fossil fuel options.
- Europe’s Endless Heat Waves Imperil Once Reliable Power Sources
A series of heat waves in Europe has weakened historically reliable electricity sources, leading to increased reliance on imported fossil fuels and variable renewable energy.
- NashVillager Podcast: Oil, water and Tennessee coal
The NashVillager Podcast discusses Tennessee's energy landscape, highlighting its historical reliance on renewable power and current challenges with efficiency and fossil fuel dependence. The episode also covers local news and an investigation into a missing Nashville skyline statue.
- Getting a bit more gas from the North Sea doesn’t matter climate-wise
The article argues that increased North Sea oil and gas extraction will not reduce global emissions, as most reserves are already extracted and supply shifts do not lower demand. It emphasizes reducing fossil fuel use through renewables and criticizes UK drilling debates as distractions from climate action. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham's VAT cut on electricity is highlighted as a step toward decarbonization.
- US factories are struggling to get cleaner heat. These ideas may help.
US factories face challenges in adopting cleaner heat sources due to rising electric bills, forcing many to rely on fossil fuels. The issue hinders efforts to clean up manufacturing operations nationwide.
- 'Just stop burning fossil fuels.' Scientists stress that our smoky skies have only one true fix
Smoky skies in Toronto have increased scrutiny of government efforts to manage wildfires and forests. Scientists argue that the only realistic solution to the smoky skies is addressing climate change by reducing fossil fuel use.
- Clean energy still beats fossil fuels on cost, despite, well, everything
Despite rising energy costs in the U.S., clean energy remains more cost-effective than fossil fuels, according to Lazard’s latest annual report. The analysis highlights clean energy as a better investment despite broader energy price increases.
- In Heat Wave, Major Power Line Meant to Boost NYC Grid Is Still Not Working
A major power line, the Champlain Hudson Power Express, designed to deliver Canadian hydropower to New York City, has been non-operational for 10 days amid a heat wave. The line, capable of powering a million homes, faces a cable issue on the U.S. portion, disrupting efforts to meet increased energy demand and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Trump's ambitious energy bet could be a winning hand as the world burns more oil, gas than ever
Global energy consumption in 2025 reached record levels with fossil fuels supplying 86% of total use, despite renewable energy growth. President Trump's push to expand U.S. oil and gas production is highlighted as a strategy to lower costs and strengthen energy security amid geopolitical tensions affecting energy supply routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
- The oceans are full of heat, and it’s coming ashore
The oceans and land are experiencing record-breaking heat, with Western Europe and the U.S. facing deadly heatwaves in June and July. Over 40% of the global ocean is undergoing marine heatwaves, linked to fossil fuel-driven climate change, which exacerbates extreme weather and coral reef damage. Scientists connect ocean warming to intensified land heatwaves and health crises.
- 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.