Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Fossil fuel industry’s “climate false solutions” reinforce its power and aggravate environmental injustice

A study by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona finds that fossil fuel companies' promoted low-carbon projects are ineffective in reducing emissions and prolonging the lifespan of fossil fuel infrastructures. These projects reinforce the industry's power and aggravate environmental injustice, while delaying a rapid phase-out of fossil fuels.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·TypeCase study·DateDec 15, 2025

Alternative carbon carrier technology could improve oil production — and carbon storage too

A new method for enhanced oil recovery proposed by researchers at The University of Texas at Austin is showing promising results in modeling studies. Alternative carbon carriers are chemical compounds engineered to store larger quantities of carbon molecules in subsurface formations, optimizing greenhouse gas transportation, utilizatio...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateAug 13, 2025

Restoring oil wells back to nature with moss

Researchers from the University of Waterloo have developed a method to restore tens of thousands of oil and gas exploration sites in western Canada using native moss. The technique involves transplanting moss onto decommissioned well pads, effectively recreating peatlands and supporting ecosystem development.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalEcological Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2025

Oil and natural gas development in Permian is a key source of ozone pollution in Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Research shows that oil and natural gas development in the Permian Basin contributes to high eight-hour ozone concentrations frequently exceeding EPA health standards during summer months. The study uses data from a 2019 field survey to confirm the impact of drilling, flaring, and other activities on ozone levels.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateJul 16, 2024

Decommissioned offshore structures could offer only limited ecological benefits

A new study published in Nature Sustainability suggests that decommissioned offshore structures may only provide limited long-term ecological benefits. The research analyzed over 530 scientific studies on the effects of marine artificial structures and found no conclusive evidence to support their use as artificial reefs.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 22, 2024

Products made of plastic falsely claimed to be biodegradable are on sale at Brazilian supermarkets

Researchers found that most allegedly biodegradable plastic items sold by Brazilian supermarkets are actually oxo-degradable plastics banned in several countries. The products cost 125% more than conventional alternatives and failed to meet minimum requirements for genuine biodegradability.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·DateOct 26, 2023

UK substantially underestimates its methane emissions from oil and gas production – and many other countries probably do too

A recent study reveals that the UK severely underestimates its greenhouse gas emissions from offshore oil and gas production by as much as five times. The researchers suggest alternative methods for calculating methane emissions, which could also apply to other countries.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJan 26, 2023

Natural gas flares likely source of respiratory illness spike

Researchers at Washington State University found a causal link between natural gas flaring and increased hospital visits for respiratory health in North Dakota. The study estimated that a 1% increase in flared natural gas increases the hospitalization rate by 0.73%, highlighting the significant impact of flaring on human health.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Public Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 8, 2022

New study reveals key factors for estimating costs to plug abandoned oil and gas wells

A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology estimates the median cost of plugging abandoned oil and gas wells at $76,000, with costs varying widely based on location, age, and other factors. The analysis of over 19,500 orphaned wells across the US provides valuable insights for regulators to adjust bonding requirements ...

SourceResources for the Future (RFF)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 27, 2021