oil and gas drilling

The Trump administration finalized a rule changing how the Endangered Species Act is enforced by narrowing the definition of 'harm' to exclude habitat destruction from activities like logging and oil drilling. Environmentalists argue the change could accelerate species extinction, while industry representatives and Republican allies claim it restores the law's original intent and supports economic growth.

The Trump administration finalized a rule narrowing the definition of 'harm' under the Endangered Species Act, allowing activities like oil drilling and logging in critical wildlife habitats if animals are not directly killed. Environmentalists warn this could accelerate species extinction, while industry groups argue it protects economic growth and private property rights.

Brazilian oil giant Petrobras announced new oil and gas drilling in the Amazon rainforest after a decade, with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attending the event. Lula hosted the COP30 UN climate conference in November, urging leaders to present roadmaps for transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Experts criticize former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair's proposal to abandon net zero targets and increase oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, arguing it would destabilize the economy and worsen climate risks. They highlight that clean energy is more cost-effective and stable, especially amid current energy crises and geopolitical tensions.