The positive contribution that the oil sector can make in providing essential aspects of the ‘Just Transition.’
This short essay, based on a talk to the Institution of Chemical Engineers, argues that the current negative narrative around oil and gas threatens to damage the economic, security and environmental prospects for Scotland and the United Kingdom. While oil and gas are heavily criticised for environmental damage, in particular through carbon emissions, such arguments tend to ignore the broader picture, not least the increasing demands for energy. The North Sea reserves offer crucial contributions to the UK economy, whilst providing a much ‘cleaner’ source of energy than international imports. The essay argues that it is essential to note the positive contribution that the sector can make, not least into providing essential aspects of the ‘Just Transition.’
Scottish Affairs, Volume 34, Issue 2