IEA: Global Warming Poses Risks to North Sea Oil and Gas Industry

Global warming could hit the North Sea oil and gas industry hard, writes The Independent on Tuesday, reporting the warning of the International Energy Agency (IEA).

“A 2C difference doesn't mean that you just need to take your jacket off, it would have devastating implications," said IEA chief economist Fatih Birol, suggesting that the UK oil and gas industry could lose hundreds of millions of pounds a year.

The Independent reports that global warming could trigger storms and waves, which would complicate oil and gas operations in the North Sea. Frequent storms could damage the constructions and would require further investments for the safety of workers and production.

“Oil companies need to strengthen their platforms. This will lead to higher costs but will improve the resilience of the structures," said Birol, urging governments to take action to tackle global warming.