Creation Covenant Alliance

Why Natural Gas Isn’t Better than Oil or Coal: 5 Key Reasons to Consider

Natural gas isn't safe for the planet or climate. It's a fossil fuel like oil and coal, contributing heavily to climate crises.
Protest March against Gas Industry in Vienna. © Rafael Bittermann / Greenpeace

Despite the term ‘natural’ in natural gas, it is not safe for the planet or climate. In reality, natural gas = fossil gas. Fossil gas, like oil and coal, is a dirty fossil fuel that endangers our safety. Here are the reasons:

Protest March against Gas Industry in Vienna. © Rafael Bittermann / Greenpeace
Greenpeace activists at a protest march on March 27, 2024, against the Gas Industry in Vienna. © Rafael Bittermann / Greenpeace

1. Fossil gas significantly contributes to the climate crisis

Fossil gas primarily comprises methane, a greenhouse gas 84 times more powerful than CO2 over 20 years. Burning fossil gas emits CO2, which exacerbates climate chaos. Gas accounts for 22% of global greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel combustion.

Methane leaks from wells, pipelines, and refineries are common, posing “a grave threat to humanity“. Studies show that fossil gas might be as harmful as coal, sometimes even worse.

Investigation of a Methane Leak in the North Sea. © Greenpeace
Activists on board the Greenpeace ship Esperanza documented two large methane leaks in the North Sea. © Greenpeace

2. Fossil gas drives inequality, violence, and conflicts

While the energy industry enjoyed record profits in 2022, citizens faced higher heating and electricity costs, with persistent inflation affecting basic goods and services. High gas prices contribute to poverty and energy poverty.

Gas also fuels conflicts, favoring resource-rich countries over those needing gas imports. Fossil fuel extraction causes social impacts and human rights violations in regions belonging to Indigenous Peoples, often linked to violence, corruption, or forced displacement.

Pumpjacks in Pecos, Texas. © Tim Aubry / Greenpeace
Activist and actor Jane Fonda visits the Permian Basin with Methane Hunters Sharon Wilson and Miguel Escoto. © Tim Aubry / Greenpeace

3. Fossil gas extraction infrastructure destroys ecosystems

Gas infrastructure like platforms, pipelines, and refineries are highly damaging to nature, causing deforestation, soil pollution, and harming wildlife like whales and dolphins. These impacts worsen the biodiversity and climate crises by harming fragile ecosystems that store CO2.

Fracking, a controversial gas extraction method, is particularly harmful and can lead to low birth weights, asthma, lymphoma, and other diseases.

4. Fossil gas pollution causes deaths and diseases

Burning fossil gas emits nitrogen oxides (NOx) and other toxins responsible for air pollution, leading to health issues like cardiovascular disease and cancer. Fossil fuel air pollution causes an estimated 5 million deaths yearly. Recent studies show that gas stoves increase the risk of respiratory disease.

Fossil-fuel-induced global warming also causes death and disease. An estimated 360,000 people could die prematurely due to extreme temperatures caused by emissions from nine major European oil and gas companies in 2022 alone.

Gas Leak Public Hearing. © David McNew / Greenpeace
People protest at a public meeting on a massive methane leak at the Aliso Canyon Storage Facility. © David McNew / Greenpeace

5. Fossil gas is an intrinsically dangerous business

Explosions, fires, and earthquakes are common in the gas industry. In the US, a gas pipeline accident occurs every 40 hours. Disasters like the San Juanico disaster in Mexico are notable examples.

Recently, the Netherlands shut down an onshore gas field due to chronic earthquakes damaging homes and buildings.

StopLNG Frontline Leaders at the Capitol in Washington DC. © Tim Aubry / Greenpeace
A group of StopLNG frontline people at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., calling for a permanent ban and a plan to shut down existing fossil fuel operations. © Tim Aubry / Greenpeace

Let’s phase out fossil gas and fossil fuels

Fossil gas accounts for nearly a quarter of global energy consumption, used mainly for cooking, heating, power generation, and industry. Despite claims by fossil fuel companies, gas endangers our safety by driving inequalities, climate chaos, health problems, and environmental destruction.

However, 100% renewable energy systems exist and are feasible. Gas can be phased out by replacing it with renewables through electrification, reducing energy demand through efficiency, and developing energy storage and demand flexibility. Transitioning to renewable energy is crucial for present and future generations’ safety and justice.

Protest March against Gas Industry in Vienna. © Rafael Bittermann / Greenpeace

Ban new fossil fuel projects

Demand the European Union to treat the climate and ecological emergency like the existential crisis it is. Our lives depend on it.

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Original Story at www.miragenews.com

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024