South County Mail

Missouri and the World

fossil fuels

Why ‘decarbonizing everything’ may be impossible – and what comes next

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For years, most climate discussions have focused on replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy such as wind and solar power.

But some scientists now argue that the challenge goes far beyond simply generating cleaner electricity.

According to analysis published by The Conversation, a significant share of fossil fuels are never burned for energy at all. Instead, they become part of the physical materials used throughout modern life – including plastics, fertilizers, insulation, synthetic fabrics and construction products. [Read more…] about Why ‘decarbonizing everything’ may be impossible – and what comes next

Americas oil boom challenges Middle East dominance as global energy markets shift

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One of the more surprising consequences of the Iran war has been the resilience of global oil supplies, despite disruption around the Strait of Hormuz – the world’s most important oil shipping chokepoint.

While many analysts initially feared far more severe shortages and price spikes, growing oil production across North and South America has helped stabilize global markets and highlighted a broader shift taking place within the energy industry.

According to analysis published by The Conversation, countries including the United States, Brazil, Canada, Guyana and Argentina are rapidly increasing production and exports, helping offset supply disruptions from the Middle East. [Read more…] about Americas oil boom challenges Middle East dominance as global energy markets shift

Oil companies earning billions from Iran war as fuel prices rise worldwide

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The war involving Iran is generating enormous profits for some of the world’s largest oil and gas companies, even as consumers and businesses face rising fuel and energy costs.

According to an analysis by environmental organization Global Witness using data from energy research firm Rystad Energy, the world’s 100 largest oil and gas companies earned an estimated $23 billion in additional profits during the first month of the conflict alone.

The report estimates that if oil prices remain elevated throughout 2026, those extra profits could rise to as much as $234 billion by the end of the year. [Read more…] about Oil companies earning billions from Iran war as fuel prices rise worldwide

EU and China are pulling ahead of the US in the global energy transition

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While fossil fuels still dominate much of the global economy, new data suggests the transition toward renewable energy is accelerating rapidly – and the United States risks falling behind Europe and China in the race to build the next generation of energy systems.

A new analysis published by The Better News argues that the global energy transition is already well under way in the electricity sector, with the European Union and China leading large-scale expansion of renewable power generation.

The article, based on analysis by economist Nikolaus Kowall and originally published by Austrian outlet Kontrast.at, says the shift toward renewable electricity is progressing faster than many people realize. [Read more…] about EU and China are pulling ahead of the US in the global energy transition

Even major oil producers are preparing for a post-oil future

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The decision by the United Arab Emirates to leave OPEC after nearly six decades may signal more than a disagreement over production quotas.

According to a new analysis published by The Conversation, the move reflects growing concern among some major oil-producing countries that the long-term future of global oil demand may be weaker than previously expected.

The UAE officially announced its departure from OPEC after 59 years amid rising geopolitical tensions, disagreements over production strategy and accelerating changes in the global energy market. [Read more…] about Even major oil producers are preparing for a post-oil future