Study Warns of Potential 11.5 Million Heat-Related Deaths from Oil and Gas Emissions by 2100

A recent study conducted by Global Witness has issued a warning regarding the potential impact of emissions from major oil and gas companies. The study suggests that these emissions could result in an additional 11.5 million deaths from heat-related causes by the year 2100.

The analysis focused on prominent players in the industry such as Shell, BP, TotalEnergies, ExxonMobil, and Chevron. It estimated that their emissions could contribute to the staggering number of excess heat deaths by 2050. Sarah Biermann Becker, a representative from Global Witness, emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting that even a slight increase in temperature could have lethal consequences.

Governments are called upon to intervene and steer the transition away from fossil fuels. The study utilized the mortality cost of the carbon model developed by Columbia University, which predicts 226 additional heat-related deaths per million tonnes of carbon released. Even if global net zero carbon emissions are achieved by 2050, the production of these companies could still lead to 5.

5 million excess deaths. The stakes are high, with intense heatwaves already claiming lives worldwide, particularly impacting vulnerable populations. Without immediate action to reduce emissions, the repercussions could be severe.

Transitioning away from fossil fuels is not only necessary to prevent heat-related fatalities but also crucial in averting other disasters like food shortages, flooding, and economic instability. While some oil giants have pledged to invest in renewable energy, critics argue that more decisive action is required to combat climate change effectively. The study serves as a wake-up call for governments and companies to prioritize sustainability and take concrete steps towards a greener future.