The Guardian view on drilling in Jackdaw: a truly pragmatic approach would focus on Britain’s green transition | Editorial
Opening the North Sea gasfield will deliver minimal benefits for households, while sending a dismal signal before next month’s Cop summit This week a report from the UN Environment Programme concluded that holding global temperatures to a 1.5C warming limit – the centrepiece commitment of the Paris climate agreement – is no longer achievable. If the disastrous consequences of a significant…
The Guardian editorial argues that approving drilling in the Jackdaw gasfield is a poor decision for Britain. The UN Environment Programme's report warns that the world is unlikely to meet its 1.5°C warming limit target, and governments must focus on immediate actions to reduce fossil fuel consumption. However, the Prime Minister justified the Jackdaw approval as a pragmatic move during a time when people are struggling.
But this decision does not bring down household energy bills, create many jobs, or significantly boost energy security. The UK will still rely heavily on gas imports. Critics argue that the government should invest more in green transition and insulating homes instead. This would reduce bills and create jobs, as research shows. The editorial suggests the PM's decision reflects a concern about the direction of Downing Street.
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