Prime Minister has “drilled straight through the UK’s climate commitments” by approving Jackdaw

Jackdaw is predicted to create just 27 Jackdaw-specific jobs over the lifetime of the field, but Oxfam’s new analysis shows that the estimated human lifetime emissions from its gas field could cause over 8000 excess heat deaths globally by the end of the century.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham promised his government would 'meet the climate challenge'. The UK cannot claim to be serious about tackling climate change while continuing to expand fossil fuel extraction.

All eyes will now be on the upcoming decision on whether to approve the larger, Rosebank, oil field.

Jean McLean added: "The real test is now Rosebank – it is critical that this project is not approved. It is unacceptable for the UK to continue to approve new fossil fuel projects whilst communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis face escalating impacts that will only deepen existing inequalities - whether gender, class, race or income."

Rosebank is estimated to produce 254 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent over its lifetime - while the vast majority of Rosebank’s reserves are oil destined for international markets, which would do little to improve UK energy security.

Oxfam’s analysis estimates that the lifetime emissions from the proposed Rosebank oil field would contribute to approximately 57,400 excess heat deaths globally by the end of the century. If it is approved too, Rosebank and Jackdaw’s combined lifetime emissions would contribute to an estimated 65,495 excess heat deaths by the end of the century – equivalent to the entire population of Canterbury.

Instead of drilling for more oil and gas, the government should focus on a credible plan for a just transition – one that supports North Sea workers and communities, accelerates renewable energy and makes rich polluters pay their fair share for climate action.

Oxfam is calling on the UK Government to:

• Not approve any new oil and gas projects, including Rosebank. These are incompatible with the UK’s climate commitments and historic responsibility for the climate crisis.
• Prioritise investment in renewable energy and a just transition that supports workers and communities while strengthening long-term energy security.
• Ensure rich polluters pay their fair share for climate action, rather than continuing to profit while communities bear the costs of climate change.