US President Donald Trump has once again urged the UK to expand oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, telling Sir Keir Starmer’s government to ‘drill, baby, drill’. In a fresh social media outburst, Trump said ‘Aberdeen should be booming’ and repeated his opposition to wind energy, calling for ‘no more windmills’ in Scotland. His remarks come as pressure mounts on the UK government to reconsider its stance on North Sea exploration, particularly amid rising oil prices and ongoing tensions in the Middle East.&nbsp;Posting on Tuesday (April 14), Trump wrote: “Europe is desperate for Energy, and yet the United Kingdom refuses to open North Sea Oil, one of the greatest fields in the World. Tragic!!! Aberdeen should be booming. Norway sells its North Sea Oil to the U.K. at double the price. They are making a fortune. UK, which is better situated on the North Sea for purposes of energy than Norway, should, DRILL, BABY, DRILL!!! It is absolutely crazy that they don’t… AND, NO MORE WINDMILLS!”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-israel-hold-first-direct-talks-after-decades-in-washington-rubio-calls-it-historic-opportunity-hezbollah-launches-new-attacks-1776191830133">Lebanon, Israel hold first direct talks after decades in Washington; Rubio calls it 'historic opportunity', Hezbollah launches new attacks</a>

Trump has consistently criticised the UK’s energy policies, claiming earlier this year that government decisions have made it ‘impossible’ for companies to develop domestic reserves. During his state visit to Britain last year, he dismissed wind power as an ‘expensive joke’ and encouraged greater use of North Sea oil and gas.&nbsp;The comments are part of a broader pattern of criticism directed at Sir Keir Starmer, with the two leaders clashing over the Middle East conflict. Recently, Trump compared Starmer to Neville Chamberlain and mocked him in speeches, questioning the UK’s military contributions. Debate over North Sea drilling has intensified in recent weeks, with growing calls for approval of projects such as Jackdaw and Rosebank as global oil prices surged.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/marco-rubio-envoys-of-israel-lebanon-to-us-to-hold-talks-1776178762716/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/marco-rubio-envoys-of-israel-lebanon-to-us-to-hold-talks-1776178762716/embed</a>&nbsp;Former Prime Minister Tony Blair also weighed in, urging increased drilling and warning that the crisis in Iran has exposed the UK’s dependence on global fossil fuel markets. While the government has denied imminent approval of new projects, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has signalled openness to exploration at both Rosebank and Jackdaw.Meanwhile, oil prices dipped below $100 per barrel on Tuesday amid optimism over possible US-Iran negotiations and a potential agreement regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

Donald Trump urges the UK to expand North Sea drilling, slams wind energy, and pressures Keir Starmer as oil prices surge amid Middle East tensions

US President Donald Trump has once again urged the UK to expand oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, telling Sir Keir Starmer’s government to ‘drill, baby, drill’. In a fresh social media outburst, Trump said ‘Aberdeen should be booming’ and repeated his opposition to wind energy, calling for ‘no more windmills’ in Scotland. His remarks come as pressure mounts on the UK government to reconsider its stance on North Sea exploration, particularly amid rising oil prices and ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Posting on Tuesday (April 14), Trump wrote: “Europe is desperate for Energy, and yet the United Kingdom refuses to open North Sea Oil, one of the greatest fields in the World. Tragic!!! Aberdeen should be booming. Norway sells its North Sea Oil to the U.K. at double the price. They are making a fortune. UK, which is better situated on the North Sea for purposes of energy than Norway, should, DRILL, BABY, DRILL!!! It is absolutely crazy that they don’t… AND, NO MORE WINDMILLS!” Also Read: Lebanon, Israel hold first direct talks after decades in Washington; Rubio calls it 'historic opportunity', Hezbollah launches new attacks

Donald Trump urges the UK to expand North Sea drilling, slams wind energy, and pressures Keir Starmer as oil prices surge amid Middle East tensions

'DRILL, BABY, DRILL...AND NO MORE...': Trump urges UK to expand North Sea oil and gas production, says Aberdeen ‘should be booming’

Europe is accelerating its green energy transition by betting big on wind power. Massive offshore wind projects in the North Sea are expected to generate enough clean electricity to power nearly 100 million homes, boosting energy security and climate goals.

North Sea Set To Become World's Largest Clean Energy Hub

European leaders meeting in Germany Monday vowed to build up offshore wind power in the North Sea in a bid to boost climate-friendly energy while reducing dependence on Russia and other foreign powers. It comes as US President Donald Trump's threats to annex Greenland have raised the issue of whether the EU wants to reduce dependence on US gas imports.



Europe Embraces Energy Tech; Merz Hosts North Sea Energy Summit Amid Greenland Tensions

Oil prices are expected to decline sharply later this year, mirrorring recent trends...This comes as escalating trade tensions between the united states and china reduce global demand. According to rystad energy, a prolonged trade war could cut china's oil demand growth in half and lower its gdp growth by about 1 percent.

Petrol Prices Could Drop – But Tax Limits Relief For Drivers

The detained captain of a cargo ship which struck a tanker chartered by the US military is a Russian national, the owners of the container vessel said Wednesday, as questions lingered over the cause of the rare North Sea crash.
Monday's collision triggered huge fires aboard the two ships, which were still burning two days later although they had been greatly reduced by a huge firefighting effort.
Investigations are continuing into how the Portuguese-flagged Solong cargo ship ran into the US-flagged Stena Immaculate which was anchored about 13 miles (20 kilometres) off the coast of the northeastern UK port of Hull.
UK police on Tuesday arrested the captain of the Solong, owned by German company Ernst Russ, on suspicion of manslaughter after the crash left one crew member missing, presumed dead.
"Ernst Russ confirms that the master is a Russian national," the Germany-based company said in a statement to AFP. "The rest of the crew are a mix of Russian and Filipino nationals."
The detained 59-year-old "remains in our custody having been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter", Humberside police said Wednesday.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-sea-collision-no-sodium-cyanide-containers-on-vessel-that-crashed-into-oil-tanker-confirms-owner-8843755">North Sea collision: Man arrested on suspicion of gross negligence; no sodium cyanide containers on vessel</a>
The Daily Telegraph reported Wednesday that Irish officials had found the Solong's emergency steering compass was deficient during a routine safety check last year.
It was one of 10 deficiencies noted in the inspection carried out when the ship visited Dublin in July 2024.&nbsp;
Something went "terribly wrong" for the crash to happen but that there was "no evidence" of foul play, UK undersecretary for transport Mike Kane told MPs on Tuesday.
At least one tank containing some of the 220,000 barrels of jet fuel on board the Stena Immaculate was "ruptured", according to the tanker's US-based operator Crowley. That sparked concerns for the surrounding environment and wildlife.
But there were "no further reports of pollution to the sea" following the "initial incident", Virginia McVea, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said Wednesday.
<h2>'Narrowly averted'</h2>
Environmental campaign group Greenpeace, which had raised the alarm at the potential fallout in the wildlife rich Humber estuary, said an "environmental disaster may have been narrowly averted".
"Though an incident of this scale is rare, any such accident has the potential to become an environmental disaster," said Paul Johnston from the Greenpeace Research Laboratories.
Aerial AFP images on Tuesday showed a gaping gash in the middle of the 140-metre-long (460 foot) tanker, and smoke billowing from the Solong, which was reduced to an almost burnt-out wreck.&nbsp;
There were "no visible flames on board" the tanker as of Wednesday morning, according to the Coastguard.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-sea-collision-accident-between-oil-tanker-and-cargo-ship-injures-32-8840457">North Sea collision between oil tanker and' cargo ship carrying cyanide injures 32</a>
The Solong, which had been drifting southwards was "being held in a safe position off shore", McVea said, adding the fires on the cargo ship had "greatly reduced".
Maritime expert Abdul Khalique told AFP such a collision between an anchored ship and another on a "routine" journey was "very rare".
"It's still not known why was MV Solong unable to take action to avoid collision," said Khalique, head of the Maritime Centre at Liverpool John Moores University.
The vessel missed "multiple opportunities" to change course, he said, adding the full reasons for the crash would only emerge after the investigation.
The Stena Immaculate was on a short-term US military charter with Military Sealift Command, according to a spokesperson for the command, which operates civilian-crewed ships for the US Defense Department.
According to data collected by website VesselFinder, the impact of the crash displaced the tanker by "more than 400 metres".
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Monday's collision triggered huge fires aboard the two ships, which were still burning two days later, although they had been greatly reduced by a huge firefighting effort.

The detained captain of a cargo ship which struck a tanker chartered by the US military is a Russian national, the owners of the container vessel said Wednesday, as questions lingered over the cause of the rare North Sea crash. Monday's collision triggered huge fires aboard the two ships, which were still burning two days later although they had been greatly reduced by a huge firefighting effort. Investigations are continuing into how the Portuguese-flagged Solong cargo ship ran into the US-flagged Stena Immaculate which was anchored about 13 miles (20 kilometres) off the coast of the northeastern UK port of Hull. UK police on Tuesday arrested the captain of the Solong, owned by German company Ernst Russ, on suspicion of manslaughter after the crash left one crew member missing, presumed dead. "Ernst Russ confirms that the master is a Russian national," the Germany-based company said in a statement to AFP. "The rest of the crew are a mix of Russian and Filipino nationals." The detained 59-year-old "remains in our custody having been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter", Humberside police said Wednesday. Also read | North Sea collision: Man arrested on suspicion of gross negligence; no sodium cyanide containers on vessel The Daily Telegraph reported Wednesday that Irish officials had found the Solong's emergency steering compass was deficient during a routine safety check last year. It was one of 10 deficiencies noted in the inspection carried out when the ship visited Dublin in July 2024. Something went "terribly wrong" for the crash to happen but that there was "no evidence" of foul play, UK undersecretary for transport Mike Kane told MPs on Tuesday. At least one tank containing some of the 220,000 barrels of jet fuel on board the Stena Immaculate was "ruptured", according to the tanker's US-based operator Crowley. That sparked concerns for the surrounding environment and wildlife. But there were "no further reports of pollution to the sea" following the "initial incident", Virginia McVea, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said Wednesday. 'Narrowly averted' Environmental campaign group Greenpeace, which had raised the alarm at the potential fallout in the wildlife rich Humber estuary, said an "environmental disaster may have been narrowly averted". "Though an incident of this scale is rare, any such accident has the potential to become an environmental disaster," said Paul Johnston from the Greenpeace Research Laboratories. Aerial AFP images on Tuesday showed a gaping gash in the middle of the 140-metre-long (460 foot) tanker, and smoke billowing from the Solong, which was reduced to an almost burnt-out wreck. There were "no visible flames on board" the tanker as of Wednesday morning, according to the Coastguard. Also read | North Sea collision between oil tanker and' cargo ship carrying cyanide injures 32 The Solong, which had been drifting southwards was "being held in a safe position off shore", McVea said, adding the fires on the cargo ship had "greatly reduced". Maritime expert Abdul Khalique told AFP such a collision between an anchored ship and another on a "routine" journey was "very rare". "It's still not known why was MV Solong unable to take action to avoid collision," said Khalique, head of the Maritime Centre at Liverpool John Moores University. The vessel missed "multiple opportunities" to change course, he said, adding the full reasons for the crash would only emerge after the investigation. The Stena Immaculate was on a short-term US military charter with Military Sealift Command, according to a spokesperson for the command, which operates civilian-crewed ships for the US Defense Department. According to data collected by website VesselFinder, the impact of the crash displaced the tanker by "more than 400 metres". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

North Sea collision: Arrested captain of cargo ship that hit oil tanker is Russian national

UK police have arrested a 59-year-old man on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with a North Sea crash. Authorities have confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody, and officers are continuing their inquiry, taking notes as part of the investigation. Watch in for more details!

North Sea collision: Man, 59, arrested on suspicion of manslaughter

36 people have been rescued after a cargo vessel collided with an oil tanker in the North Sea. One other person was taken to the hospital, but a crew member from the cargo vessel is still unaccounted for. The Coast Guard has announced that the search has been called off. Watch in for more details!

North Sea Collision: Oil tanker & cargo vessel collide in North Sea

North Sea Collision: Jet fuel spills into sea after tanker & cargo ship collision

North Sea collision: Vessels still on fire; 36 rescued one crew member missing

An oil tanker and a cargo ship collided off the coast of the United Kingdom…
causing a large fire on both vessels. Coast guards said the alarm was raised at 9:48 a.m. (0948 GMT) on March 3. The site of the collision is off the coast of Hull, about 155 miles (250 kilometers) north of London. At least 32 people were injured and were brought ashore for treatment. Watch to know more!

Oil Tanker, Cargo Ship Collides In North Sea, At Least 32 Injured

The US President Donald Trump's administration is set to eliminate 83 per cent of the programmes under the USAID and move the remaining to the State Department.
In other news, at least 32 people were injured after a collision between an oil tanker and a cargo ship in the North Sea.
Meanwhile, Ukraine is set to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire with Russia during discussions with US officials in Saudi Arabia this week.
Click on the headlines for more
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-us-state-secretary-marco-rubio-usaid-programs-elon-musk-doge-8840639">&lsquo;Thank you to DOGE&rsquo;: Trump&rsquo;s State Secy Rubio slashes 83% of USAID programs, Musk says &lsquo;tough but necessary&rsquo;</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/25/JSeL9zzWnYqA38K8GJoy.png" alt=" US President Donald Trump with Secretary of State Marco Rubio Photograph: (Reuters) ">
The Trump administration is set to eliminate 83 per cent of the programmes under the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and shift the remaining ones to the State Department, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Monday (March 10).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-sea-collision-accident-between-oil-tanker-and-cargo-ship-injures-32-8840457">North Sea collision between oil tanker and cargo ship injures 32</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/10/OsHGYvDSbAqiiHttSt7B.jpg" alt=" North Sea tanker and cargo ship collision injures 32 Photograph: (AFP) ">
At least 32 people sustained injuries in the North Sea collision between an oil tanker and a cargo ship and were brought ashore.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-president-donald-trump-zelensky-what-to-expect-from-us-ukraine-talks-in-saudi-after-trump-zelensky-fallout-8840380">'Ceasefire in sky and sea': What to expect from US-Ukraine talks in Saudi after Trump, Zelensky fallout</a>
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Kyiv is set to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire with Russia during discussions with US officials in Saudi Arabia this week, according to media reports. President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to arrive in the kingdom as the negotiations take place.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-offers-flexibility-in-gaza-negotiations-pressures-israel-to-move-forward-8839816">'Continues to renege'; Hamas accuses Israel of backtracking on Gaza truce deal</a>
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Hamas, on Monday (Mar 10), accused Israel of backtracking on a truce deal and refusing to go forward with the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, as Israeli negotiators were scheduled to discuss a potential extension in Qatar.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mark-carney-liberal-leader-set-to-succeed-justin-trudeau-as-canadas-next-pm-8839736">Who is Mark Carney? Liberal leader set to succeed Justin Trudeau as Canada&rsquo;s next PM</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/10/HpktIw1F2bkXpZZaerqu.png" alt=" Canada's Liberal Leader and Prime Minister-elect Mark Carney speaks after being elected as the new Liberal Party leader in Ottawa on March 9, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
After being elected as the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Mark Carney is set to become the country&rsquo;s next prime minister. Carney, the former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, will succeed Justin Trudeau, who stepped down earlier this year.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-new-leader-vows-investigation-into-mass-killings-of-alawite-civilians-who-are-they-8839193">Syria&rsquo;s new leader vows investigation into mass killings of Alawite civilians. Who are they?</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/10/V1wtbtL7iuXZPMQSULbN.jpg" alt=" Combination image of Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa and Security forces loyal to the interim Syrian government. Photograph: (AFP) ">
As Syria witnesses &ldquo;one of the biggest massacres&rdquo; since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, its new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has vowed to hunt down Assad loyalists and promised an investigation into the mass killings of Alawites following international backlash.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-iconic-tower-bridge-closed-as-man-climbs-up-and-sits-on-railings-8840138">UK&rsquo;s iconic Tower Bridge briefly closed as man climbs up and sits on railings</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/10/juKaH4gzq912DlipYlkj.jpg" alt=" Members of the emergency services work to bring down a person who had scaled part of Tower Bridge, in London on March 10, 2025. Photograph: (AFP) ">
The UK's Tower Bridge has been closed on Monday (Mar 10) after a man climbed up the iconic landmark in London. This comes two days after a pro-Palestinian protester caused chaos after climbing the Elizabeth Tower.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-confirms-us-in-talks-with-four-different-groups-interested-in-acquiring-tiktok-8839995">Trump confirms US in talks with four different groups interested in acquiring TikTok</a>
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US President Donald Trump, on Sunday (Mar 9), said that his administration was talking to four different groups that were interested in acquiring Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/iifa-2025-nitanshi-goel-alia-bhatt-katrina-kaif-in-best-actress-category-laapataa-ladies-8840596">IIFA 2025: Nitanshi Goel breaks down as she beats Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif in Best Actress category</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/05/15/431618-your-paragraph-text-2024-05-15t194405291.jpg" alt=" IIFA 2025: Nitanshi Goel breaks down as she beats Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif in Best Actress category">
Nitanshi Goel got emotional on the IIFA 2025 stage on Sunday night as she won the Best Actress in a Leading Role category for her performance in Laapataa Ladies. The film, helmed by Kiran Rao and backed by Aamir Khan, dominated the awards night with 10 wins.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/winning-captain-rohit-sharma-misses-cut-in-iccs-champions-trophy-team-of-the-tournament-8840507">Winning captain Rohit Sharma misses cut in ICC&rsquo;s Champions Trophy Team of the Tournament</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/03/10/PXlgU1x2x0aui1OtgzIH.jpg" alt=" Winning captain Rohit Sharma misses cut in ICC&rsquo;s Champions Trophy Team of the Tournament Photograph: (Others) ">
Rohit Sharma might have led India to a monumental win in the just concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand in Dubai but missed out on getting picked in ICC&rsquo;s Team of the Tournament announced Monday evening. His counterpart, the Kiwi captain Mitchell Santner, leads the best XI picked by a selection panel of commentators and former international players.
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Dive into today's top global stories, bringing you the most significant events and updates from around the world to keep you informed and engaged.

The US President Donald Trump's administration is set to eliminate 83 per cent of the programmes under the USAID and move the remaining to the State Department. In other news, at least 32 people were injured after a collision between an oil tanker and a cargo ship in the North Sea. Meanwhile, Ukraine is set to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire with Russia during discussions with US officials in Saudi Arabia this week. Click on the headlines for more ‘Thank you to DOGE’: Trump’s State Secy Rubio slashes 83% of USAID programs, Musk says ‘tough but necessary’ The Trump administration is set to eliminate 83 per cent of the programmes under the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and shift the remaining ones to the State Department, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Monday (March 10). North Sea collision between oil tanker and cargo ship injures 32 At least 32 people sustained injuries in the North Sea collision between an oil tanker and a cargo ship and were brought ashore. 'Ceasefire in sky and sea': What to expect from US-Ukraine talks in Saudi after Trump, Zelensky fallout Kyiv is set to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire with Russia during discussions with US officials in Saudi Arabia this week, according to media reports. President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to arrive in the kingdom as the negotiations take place. 'Continues to renege'; Hamas accuses Israel of backtracking on Gaza truce deal Hamas, on Monday (Mar 10), accused Israel of backtracking on a truce deal and refusing to go forward with the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, as Israeli negotiators were scheduled to discuss a potential extension in Qatar. Who is Mark Carney? Liberal leader set to succeed Justin Trudeau as Canada’s next PM After being elected as the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Mark Carney is set to become the country’s next prime minister. Carney, the former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, will succeed Justin Trudeau, who stepped down earlier this year. Syria’s new leader vows investigation into mass killings of Alawite civilians. Who are they? As Syria witnesses “one of the biggest massacres” since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, its new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has vowed to hunt down Assad loyalists and promised an investigation into the mass killings of Alawites following international backlash. UK’s iconic Tower Bridge briefly closed as man climbs up and sits on railings The UK's Tower Bridge has been closed on Monday (Mar 10) after a man climbed up the iconic landmark in London. This comes two days after a pro-Palestinian protester caused chaos after climbing the Elizabeth Tower. Trump confirms US in talks with four different groups interested in acquiring TikTok US President Donald Trump, on Sunday (Mar 9), said that his administration was talking to four different groups that were interested in acquiring Chinese-owned social media platform TikTok. IIFA 2025: Nitanshi Goel breaks down as she beats Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif in Best Actress category Nitanshi Goel got emotional on the IIFA 2025 stage on Sunday night as she won the Best Actress in a Leading Role category for her performance in Laapataa Ladies. The film, helmed by Kiran Rao and backed by Aamir Khan, dominated the awards night with 10 wins. Winning captain Rohit Sharma misses cut in ICC’s Champions Trophy Team of the Tournament Rohit Sharma might have led India to a monumental win in the just concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand in Dubai but missed out on getting picked in ICC’s Team of the Tournament announced Monday evening. His counterpart, the Kiwi captain Mitchell Santner, leads the best XI picked by a selection panel of commentators and former international players.

Top 10 world news: US slashes 83% of USAID programmes; North Sea collision, and more

In the North Sea's depths, small depressions, seemingly formed by leaking methane, have puzzled researchers for years. However, recent findings propose an unexpected explanation: these pits might be the handiwork of foraging porpoises, challenging long-held assumptions about the sea's geological features.

<h2>Methane pits no more</h2>

As per a Live Science report, Geoscientist Jens Schneider von Deimling of Kiel University initially doubted the methane theory, given the North Sea's porous, sandy floor and strong currents, which inhibit methane accumulation.

"I didn't really see any mechanisms that accumulate methane," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/quite-the-photographer-us-lunar-spacecraft-odysseus-shares-new-pictures-it-is-expected-to-go-dark-soon-694602">'Quite the photographer': US lunar spacecraft Odysseus shares new pictures; it is expected to go dark soon</a>

Subsequent research expeditions confirmed his suspicions. Mapping studies using a sub-bottom echo sounder — a form of sonar that bounces sound off the seafloor to image the shallow subsurface — led to the conclusion that the pits' formation was not methane-related.

"We mined thousands of miles of data for shallow gas, and simply didn't find that," explained Schneider von Deimling.

To investigate further, researchers employed a high-resolution multi-beam echo sounder, allowing detailed scrutiny of the pits' shape. They discovered that the pits were not conical, as expected with methane leaks, but rather maintained a consistent depth of 4.3 inches (10.92 centimetres), but of varying widths.

<h2>Why is this important?</h2>

Schneider von Deimling's collaboration with biologists studying harbour porpoises provided a breakthrough. These porpoises, known for scouring the seafloor for buried sand eels, overlapped with the pit locations. Subsequent oceanographic data analysis and echo sounder surveys confirmed this correlation, suggesting that the pits were porpoise-created and later shaped by ocean currents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/abandoned-pipelines-pose-threat-of-releasing-toxins-into-north-sea-scientists-issue-warning-693452">Abandoned pipelines pose threat of releasing toxins into North Sea, scientists issue warning</a>

While photographic proof of porpoise digging remains elusive due to murky waters and the "pretty shy" harbour porpoise, the study's interdisciplinary approach sheds light on animal behaviour and its impact on seafloor morphology. Understanding the origin of seafloor pits is crucial for identifying submarine hazards, such as those related to tectonic activity, where methane seepage pits may indicate fault lines.

This study's results suggest that the potential long-term geological impact of large animals on seafloor evolution may be bigger than previous assumptions.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the North Sea's depths, small depressions, seemingly formed by leaking methane, have puzzled researchers for years. However, recent findings propose an unexpected explanation: these pits might be the handiwork of foraging porpoises, challenging long-held assumptions about the sea's geological features.

In the North Sea's depths, small depressions, seemingly formed by leaking methane, have puzzled researchers for years. However, recent findings propose an unexpected explanation: these pits might be the handiwork of foraging porpoises, challenging long-held assumptions about the sea's geological features. Methane pits no more As per a Live Science report, Geoscientist Jens Schneider von Deimling of Kiel University initially doubted the methane theory, given the North Sea's porous, sandy floor and strong currents, which inhibit methane accumulation. "I didn't really see any mechanisms that accumulate methane," he said. Also read | 'Quite the photographer': US lunar spacecraft Odysseus shares new pictures; it is expected to go dark soon Subsequent research expeditions confirmed his suspicions. Mapping studies using a sub-bottom echo sounder — a form of sonar that bounces sound off the seafloor to image the shallow subsurface — led to the conclusion that the pits' formation was not methane-related. "We mined thousands of miles of data for shallow gas, and simply didn't find that," explained Schneider von Deimling. To investigate further, researchers employed a high-resolution multi-beam echo sounder, allowing detailed scrutiny of the pits' shape. They discovered that the pits were not conical, as expected with methane leaks, but rather maintained a consistent depth of 4.3 inches (10.92 centimetres), but of varying widths. Why is this important? Schneider von Deimling's collaboration with biologists studying harbour porpoises provided a breakthrough. These porpoises, known for scouring the seafloor for buried sand eels, overlapped with the pit locations. Subsequent oceanographic data analysis and echo sounder surveys confirmed this correlation, suggesting that the pits were porpoise-created and later shaped by ocean currents. Also read | Abandoned pipelines pose threat of releasing toxins into North Sea, scientists issue warning While photographic proof of porpoise digging remains elusive due to murky waters and the "pretty shy" harbour porpoise, the study's interdisciplinary approach sheds light on animal behaviour and its impact on seafloor morphology. Understanding the origin of seafloor pits is crucial for identifying submarine hazards, such as those related to tectonic activity, where methane seepage pits may indicate fault lines. This study's results suggest that the potential long-term geological impact of large animals on seafloor evolution may be bigger than previous assumptions. (With inputs from agencies)

'Porpoise-ful' mistake: Porpoises, not methane, may be responsible for mysterious pits in North Sea

Neglected oil and gas pipelines deteriorating in the North Sea pose a potential hazard, as they may discharge significant amounts of hazardous substances such as mercury, radioactive lead, and polonium-210, infamous for its role in the poisoning of Russian defector Alexander Litvinenko, caution scientists.

Mercury, a highly toxic element present naturally in oil and gas, adheres to the interior of pipelines and accumulates over time, eventually being released into the sea as the pipelines corrode.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-make-stunning-discovery-of-fossil-belonging-to-240-million-year-old-dragon-693402">Scientists make stunning discovery of fossil belonging to 240 million-year-old 'dragon'</a>

Methylmercury, the most toxic form of the metal, is emitted by these pipelines, with other forms potentially converting into it. The Minamata Convention on Mercury internationally warns that elevated mercury levels in marine mammals like dolphins, whales, and seals can lead to "reproductive failure, behavioural changes, and even death." Seabirds and large predatory fish, such as tuna and swordfish, are also particularly at risk.

Lhiam Paton, a researcher at the University of Graz’s Institute for Analytical Chemistry, who has highlighted the mercury pollution issue, emphasises that even a slight rise in sea mercury levels can have a significant impact on top-of-the-food-chain animals.

The North Sea harbors approximately 27,000 km of gas pipelines, and experts estimate that the metal concentration in the sea could surge anywhere from 3 per cent to 160 per cent&nbsp;above current levels. Unlike some countries where regulations mandate the removal of pipelines after oil well cessation, North Sea companies are permitted to leave them to deteriorate.

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Paton, whose findings are published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials, warns that pipelines left on the seabed may retain substantial amounts of mercury, waiting to be released into the local marine environment as they corrode post-decommissioning. The impact on wildlife and food chains will depend on the form of mercury released, with certain forms less likely to be absorbed by marine life. Researcher Dr. Darren Koppel emphasises the need to understand the long-term fate of mercury in contaminated pipelines and the conditions leading to its integration into food webs.

In addition to mercury, scientists are concerned about naturally occurring radioactive materials, such as radium, present in some underwater oil and gas reservoirs. These materials may accumulate as scales inside subsea pipelines, with potential radiological risks to marine organisms. Experts stress the necessity for further research to comprehend the environmental impact fully.

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Hugo Tagholm, executive director of Oceana UK, describes the situation as another instance of the severe harm caused by oil and gas developments on marine wildlife, emphasising mercury's neurotoxic effects. Despite being a signatory to the Minamata convention, aimed at addressing mercury pollution, the UK has recently granted new oil and gas licenses in the North Sea. Concerns are raised about the potential risks to the rich biodiversity of the North Sea and the millions dependent on it.

Responding to these concerns, Offshore Energies UK decommissioning manager Ricky Thomson asserts the industry's commitment to meeting obligations under national and international regulations. The decommissioning process involves rigorous environmental impact assessments, with operators obtaining permits and consents from the offshore environmental regulator.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-nasa-videos-show-shocking-visualisation-of-global-carbon-emissions-606508">Video:&nbsp;New NASA videos show shocking visualisation of global carbon emissions</a>

However, concerns persist, with experts emphasising the need for transparency, collaboration, and ongoing research to address the potential environmental consequences of neglected pipelines. Worldwide, there are approximately 1.3 million km of installed oil and gas pipelines.

(With inputs from agencies)

Neglected oil and gas pipelines deteriorating in the North Sea pose a potential hazard, as they may discharge significant amounts of hazardous substances such as mercury, radioactive lead, and polonium-210, infamous for its role in the poisoning of Russian defector Alexander Litvinenko, caution scientists.

Neglected oil and gas pipelines deteriorating in the North Sea pose a potential hazard, as they may discharge significant amounts of hazardous substances such as mercury, radioactive lead, and polonium-210, infamous for its role in the poisoning of Russian defector Alexander Litvinenko, caution scientists. Mercury, a highly toxic element present naturally in oil and gas, adheres to the interior of pipelines and accumulates over time, eventually being released into the sea as the pipelines corrode. Also read: Scientists make stunning discovery of fossil belonging to 240 million-year-old 'dragon' Methylmercury, the most toxic form of the metal, is emitted by these pipelines, with other forms potentially converting into it. The Minamata Convention on Mercury internationally warns that elevated mercury levels in marine mammals like dolphins, whales, and seals can lead to "reproductive failure, behavioural changes, and even death." Seabirds and large predatory fish, such as tuna and swordfish, are also particularly at risk. Lhiam Paton, a researcher at the University of Graz’s Institute for Analytical Chemistry, who has highlighted the mercury pollution issue, emphasises that even a slight rise in sea mercury levels can have a significant impact on top-of-the-food-chain animals. The North Sea harbors approximately 27,000 km of gas pipelines, and experts estimate that the metal concentration in the sea could surge anywhere from 3 per cent to 160 per cent above current levels. Unlike some countries where regulations mandate the removal of pipelines after oil well cessation, North Sea companies are permitted to leave them to deteriorate. Also read: A silent warning? Microplastics found in every human placenta, reveals new study Paton, whose findings are published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials, warns that pipelines left on the seabed may retain substantial amounts of mercury, waiting to be released into the local marine environment as they corrode post-decommissioning. The impact on wildlife and food chains will depend on the form of mercury released, with certain forms less likely to be absorbed by marine life. Researcher Dr. Darren Koppel emphasises the need to understand the long-term fate of mercury in contaminated pipelines and the conditions leading to its integration into food webs. In addition to mercury, scientists are concerned about naturally occurring radioactive materials, such as radium, present in some underwater oil and gas reservoirs. These materials may accumulate as scales inside subsea pipelines, with potential radiological risks to marine organisms. Experts stress the necessity for further research to comprehend the environmental impact fully. Video: NASA releases stunning time-lapse footage of gamma-ray Hugo Tagholm, executive director of Oceana UK, describes the situation as another instance of the severe harm caused by oil and gas developments on marine wildlife, emphasising mercury's neurotoxic effects. Despite being a signatory to the Minamata convention, aimed at addressing mercury pollution, the UK has recently granted new oil and gas licenses in the North Sea. Concerns are raised about the potential risks to the rich biodiversity of the North Sea and the millions dependent on it. Responding to these concerns, Offshore Energies UK decommissioning manager Ricky Thomson asserts the industry's commitment to meeting obligations under national and international regulations. The decommissioning process involves rigorous environmental impact assessments, with operators obtaining permits and consents from the offshore environmental regulator. Video: New NASA videos show shocking visualisation of global carbon emissions However, concerns persist, with experts emphasising the need for transparency, collaboration, and ongoing research to address the potential environmental consequences of neglected pipelines. Worldwide, there are approximately 1.3 million km of installed oil and gas pipelines. (With inputs from agencies)

Abandoned pipelines pose threat of releasing toxins into North Sea, scientists issue warning

The Norwegian cruise ship MS Maud lost its navigation ability and suffered a power outage after being hit by a rogue wave while it was sailing in the North Sea, said Danish authorities and the ship's owner on Thursday (Dec 21).

The 266 passengers and 131 crew members were safe, as per the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre.

"There is no power on the ship. The main engine is functioning but the navigation systems and radars are not," a spokesperson for the centre, which is responsible for coordinating search and rescue operations, said.

While the ship was sailing approximately 200 kilometres (120 miles) off Denmark's west coast and roughly 330 kilometres off Britain's east coast, strong winds tore apart the windows on the bridge of the vessel, allowing water to enter which resulted in a power failure on the bridge, said the centre.

The ship belongs to the cruise company HX which is a unit of Norway's Hurtigruten Group, it left Floroe in Norway on Thursday (Dec 21) and was due to arrive in Tilbury in the UK on Friday (Dec 22).

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"Earlier this afternoon, December 21, MS Maud reported a temporary loss of power after encountering a rogue wave," Hurtigruten said in an emailed statement.

"At this time, the ship has confirmed that no serious passenger or crew injuries have been sustained as a result of the incident and the condition of the ship remains stable," it said.

A towage vessel from the civil rescue company Esvagt was then sent which was scheduled to arrive at the ship around 2230 GMT.

The ship is now being steered manually from the engine room, it can however not navigate.

Esvagt support vessels had then arrived at the spot to help the ship navigate until it could be dragged to the port.

"I don't think there is any danger to the ship now. If the captain thought so, he would have asked to be evacuated which he hasn't," the rescue centre spokesperson said.

The area was on Thursday hit by a storm with hurricane-force gusts blowing from the northwest which the Danish Meteorological Institute said would continue on Friday as well.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Norwegian cruise ship MS Maud lost its navigation ability and suffered a power outage after being hit by a rogue wave while it was sailing in the North Sea, said Danish authorities and the ship's owner on Thursday (Dec 21).

The Norwegian cruise ship MS Maud lost its navigation ability and suffered a power outage after being hit by a rogue wave while it was sailing in the North Sea, said Danish authorities and the ship's owner on Thursday (Dec 21). The 266 passengers and 131 crew members were safe, as per the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre. "There is no power on the ship. The main engine is functioning but the navigation systems and radars are not," a spokesperson for the centre, which is responsible for coordinating search and rescue operations, said. While the ship was sailing approximately 200 kilometres (120 miles) off Denmark's west coast and roughly 330 kilometres off Britain's east coast, strong winds tore apart the windows on the bridge of the vessel, allowing water to enter which resulted in a power failure on the bridge, said the centre. The ship belongs to the cruise company HX which is a unit of Norway's Hurtigruten Group, it left Floroe in Norway on Thursday (Dec 21) and was due to arrive in Tilbury in the UK on Friday (Dec 22). Also read: India was granted consular access to man arrested over Pannun murder plot thrice, says MEA "Earlier this afternoon, December 21, MS Maud reported a temporary loss of power after encountering a rogue wave," Hurtigruten said in an emailed statement. "At this time, the ship has confirmed that no serious passenger or crew injuries have been sustained as a result of the incident and the condition of the ship remains stable," it said. A towage vessel from the civil rescue company Esvagt was then sent which was scheduled to arrive at the ship around 2230 GMT. The ship is now being steered manually from the engine room, it can however not navigate. Esvagt support vessels had then arrived at the spot to help the ship navigate until it could be dragged to the port. "I don't think there is any danger to the ship now. If the captain thought so, he would have asked to be evacuated which he hasn't," the rescue centre spokesperson said. The area was on Thursday hit by a storm with hurricane-force gusts blowing from the northwest which the Danish Meteorological Institute said would continue on Friday as well. (With inputs from agencies)

Norwegian cruise ship loses ability to navigate in North Sea after storm shatters windows

Several people went&nbsp;missing after collision between two freight ships in North Sea near German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24).

The collision between the two vessels, named Polesie and Verity, took place around 0300 GMT on Tuesday 12 nautical miles &nbsp;(22 kilometres) southwest of Heligoland, said German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME). The collision may have resulted in sinking of the Verity.

The central command said that one person was rescued from the water and has been receiving medical treatment. Several others are missing.

A rescue cruiser, police boats, a sensor aircraft along with a helicopter have been pressed into the rescue effort. The authorities said that the Polesie, carrying 22 passengers is still waterborne.

The Polesie was sailing to La Coruna (Spain) from Hambutg (Germany).

The Verity was going from Bremen (Germany) to Immingham (England). It was the smaller vessel between the two ships with a length of 91 metres (about 300 feet). The Polesie is 190 metres long.

According to the German news outlet The Bild, a total of six people are missing.

"The emergency services are doing everything they can to rescue the missing people," German Transport Minister Volker Wissing said in a statement.

"My thoughts are with the crew members, their relatives and the rescue teams who have been in action since early this morning."

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The German authorities have said that a P&amp;O cruise ship that was in the area, the IONA has also been roped in for rescue effort.

"On board the IONA, people can also receive medical care; there are doctors on board," they said.

Difficult weather conditions prevailed while the search was going on. The winds were of strength six on the Beaufort scale and waves reached as high as three metres.

This accident has taken place just weeks after a ship carrying hundreds of electric cars caught fire in the North Sea. The ship was off the coast of the Netherlands.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Several people went missing after collision between two freight ships in North Sea near German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24).

Several people went missing after collision between two freight ships in North Sea near German island of Heligoland, said German authorities on Tuesday (Oct 24). The collision between the two vessels, named Polesie and Verity, took place around 0300 GMT on Tuesday 12 nautical miles (22 kilometres) southwest of Heligoland, said German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME). The collision may have resulted in sinking of the Verity. The central command said that one person was rescued from the water and has been receiving medical treatment. Several others are missing. A rescue cruiser, police boats, a sensor aircraft along with a helicopter have been pressed into the rescue effort. The authorities said that the Polesie, carrying 22 passengers is still waterborne. The Polesie was sailing to La Coruna (Spain) from Hambutg (Germany). The Verity was going from Bremen (Germany) to Immingham (England). It was the smaller vessel between the two ships with a length of 91 metres (about 300 feet). The Polesie is 190 metres long. According to the German news outlet The Bild, a total of six people are missing. "The emergency services are doing everything they can to rescue the missing people," German Transport Minister Volker Wissing said in a statement. "My thoughts are with the crew members, their relatives and the rescue teams who have been in action since early this morning." Also Read | Germany: Scholz promises action after Molotovs hurled at synagogue The German authorities have said that a P&O cruise ship that was in the area, the IONA has also been roped in for rescue effort. "On board the IONA, people can also receive medical care; there are doctors on board," they said. Difficult weather conditions prevailed while the search was going on. The winds were of strength six on the Beaufort scale and waves reached as high as three metres. This accident has taken place just weeks after a ship carrying hundreds of electric cars caught fire in the North Sea. The ship was off the coast of the Netherlands. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Cargo ships collide in German North Sea, one sinks; several people missing

The United Kingdom on Wednesday (September 27) greenlit oil and gas production in Rosebank field, the country's largest undeveloped field, in order to bolster energy security. The development has come one week after British government diluted its net-zero targets. Both developments have triggered condemnation from environmentalists.

Equinor and Ithaca energy will together invest USD 3.8 billion to develop the field. Equinor is a Norwegian oil and gas producer while Ithaca Energy is a subsidiary of Israeli group Delek.

The Rosebank oil field is in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland.

UK oil and gas regulator, The North Sea Transition Authority, said it had "granted development and production consent for the Rosebank field, north-west of Shetland".

Equinor has an 80 per cent interest in the project while Ithaca has the remainder.

"Rosebank stands as the largest undeveloped field in the UK," said Gilad Myerson, executive chairman at Ithaca Energy, as quoted by Reuters.

"The Rosebank project will create thousands of jobs and contribute significantly to securing the UK's energy needs for many years to come," he added.&nbsp;

Watch | UK to get first legal drug consumption room, plan to provide users hygienic environment

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The UK has now taken a stance that it should continue to produce fossil fuels to ensure energy security, especially in the wake of Russian invasion of Ukraine, even if it means pushing back net-zero carbon emissions target. Ukraine war has created hurdles in energy supply to Europe. Russia was a key energy provider to Europe and has reduced supply since last year as retaliation to economic sanctions.

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"We are investing in our world-leading renewable energy but... we will need oil and gas as part of that mix on the path to net zero, and so it makes sense to use our own supplies from North Sea fields such as Rosebank," said UK Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho.

"We will continue to back the UK's oil and gas industry to underpin our energy security, grow our economy and help us deliver the transition to cheaper, cleaner energy," she added.&nbsp;

<h3>Environmentalists not happy</h3>

The development hasn't gone down well with environmentalists.

Philip Evans, Greenpeace UK's climate campaigner, said, "Sunak has proven once and for all that he puts the profits of oil companies above everyday people".&nbsp;

"We know that relying on fossil fuels is terrible for our energy security, the cost of living, and the climate," he added in a statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Kingdom on Wednesday (September 27) greenlit oil and gas production in Rosebank field, the country's largest undeveloped field, in order to bolster energy security.

The United Kingdom on Wednesday (September 27) greenlit oil and gas production in Rosebank field, the country's largest undeveloped field, in order to bolster energy security. The development has come one week after British government diluted its net-zero targets. Both developments have triggered condemnation from environmentalists. Equinor and Ithaca energy will together invest USD 3.8 billion to develop the field. Equinor is a Norwegian oil and gas producer while Ithaca Energy is a subsidiary of Israeli group Delek. The Rosebank oil field is in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland. UK oil and gas regulator, The North Sea Transition Authority, said it had "granted development and production consent for the Rosebank field, north-west of Shetland". Equinor has an 80 per cent interest in the project while Ithaca has the remainder. "Rosebank stands as the largest undeveloped field in the UK," said Gilad Myerson, executive chairman at Ithaca Energy, as quoted by Reuters. "The Rosebank project will create thousands of jobs and contribute significantly to securing the UK's energy needs for many years to come," he added. Watch | UK to get first legal drug consumption room, plan to provide users hygienic environment × The UK has now taken a stance that it should continue to produce fossil fuels to ensure energy security, especially in the wake of Russian invasion of Ukraine, even if it means pushing back net-zero carbon emissions target. Ukraine war has created hurdles in energy supply to Europe. Russia was a key energy provider to Europe and has reduced supply since last year as retaliation to economic sanctions. Also Read | Wait, what? UK sets up official consumption rooms to 'help' users take illegal drugs like cocaine "We are investing in our world-leading renewable energy but... we will need oil and gas as part of that mix on the path to net zero, and so it makes sense to use our own supplies from North Sea fields such as Rosebank," said UK Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho. "We will continue to back the UK's oil and gas industry to underpin our energy security, grow our economy and help us deliver the transition to cheaper, cleaner energy," she added. Environmentalists not happy The development hasn't gone down well with environmentalists. Philip Evans, Greenpeace UK's climate campaigner, said, "Sunak has proven once and for all that he puts the profits of oil companies above everyday people". "We know that relying on fossil fuels is terrible for our energy security, the cost of living, and the climate," he added in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK greenlights North Sea oil drilling a week after diluting net-zero targets

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to confirm that the British Government will issue 100 licences to companies that want to extract oil and gas from the North Sea.

UK PM Sunak approves more drilling in North Sea, 100 new licences accepted | World Business Watch

The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government. The announcement has since drawn criticism from environmental groups in the country and could hinder the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.&nbsp;

<h2>What does UK government plan to do?</h2>

The plan was confirmed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had previously said that hundreds of future licences could also be granted.&nbsp;

“Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses,” said the British PM’s office&nbsp;in a statement. &nbsp;

It added, “Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence.”&nbsp;

Sunak, during his visit to Aberdeenshire on Monday, argued that the plan will help the UK reach its target of meeting net zero by 2050 and even by this date the country is expected to get more than a quarter of its energy from oil and gas.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the government also said that while a “more flexible application process” would be used for the licence requests, they would still be subject to a “climate compatibility” test for carbon reduction goals.

The oil and gas industry regulator expects the first of the new licences to be awarded in the fall, said the UK government.&nbsp;

The UK PM also spoke about how the move will help reduce reliance on “hostile states”, including Russia, and improve energy security. “We have all witnessed how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy... Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security.”&nbsp;

<h2>UK’s carbon capture and storage</h2>

Sunak also announced support for two carbon capture and storage (CCS) clusters in Scotland and northern England, along the North Sea coast, in addition to the two already under construction. The statement also said that the four clusters could support up to 50,000 jobs by 2030.

A ‘wrecking ball’ for UK’s climate commitments 
 
The Conservative-led government’s plans are also in complete contradiction with the pledges from the opposition Labour Party to ban new oil and gas projects in the North Sea.&nbsp;

The move comes as record-breaking temperatures were witnessed across Europe, the United States and China, with scientists <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-deadly-heatwaves-across-europe-us-would-be-virtually-impossible-without-climate-change-619402">predominantly blaming</a> human-induced climate change and burning fossil fuels. Environmentalists warn that these new projects by the Sunak government are incompatible with the country’s targets.&nbsp;

“Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will send a wrecking ball through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a just transition to a low-carbon economy and our own abundant renewables,” said Oxfam’s climate policy adviser, Lyndsay Walsh, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government.

The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government. The announcement has since drawn criticism from environmental groups in the country and could hinder the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. What does UK government plan to do? The plan was confirmed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had previously said that hundreds of future licences could also be granted. “Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses,” said the British PM’s office in a statement. It added, “Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence.” Sunak, during his visit to Aberdeenshire on Monday, argued that the plan will help the UK reach its target of meeting net zero by 2050 and even by this date the country is expected to get more than a quarter of its energy from oil and gas. Furthermore, the government also said that while a “more flexible application process” would be used for the licence requests, they would still be subject to a “climate compatibility” test for carbon reduction goals. The oil and gas industry regulator expects the first of the new licences to be awarded in the fall, said the UK government. The UK PM also spoke about how the move will help reduce reliance on “hostile states”, including Russia, and improve energy security. “We have all witnessed how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy... Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security.” UK’s carbon capture and storage Sunak also announced support for two carbon capture and storage (CCS) clusters in Scotland and northern England, along the North Sea coast, in addition to the two already under construction. The statement also said that the four clusters could support up to 50,000 jobs by 2030. A ‘wrecking ball’ for UK’s climate commitments The Conservative-led government’s plans are also in complete contradiction with the pledges from the opposition Labour Party to ban new oil and gas projects in the North Sea. The move comes as record-breaking temperatures were witnessed across Europe, the United States and China, with scientists predominantly blaming human-induced climate change and burning fossil fuels. Environmentalists warn that these new projects by the Sunak government are incompatible with the country’s targets. “Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will send a wrecking ball through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a just transition to a low-carbon economy and our own abundant renewables,” said Oxfam’s climate policy adviser, Lyndsay Walsh, as quoted by The Guardian. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK to approve ‘hundreds’ of new North Sea oil and gas licences despite net zero carbon emissions aim

A cargo ship drifting off the Dutch Coast continued to burn a day after it caught fire it has sparked a fierce experimental disaster if it were to sink. An Indian crew member died in The Inferno while other crew members are reportedly injured.

Cargo ship continues to burn in the North Sea

Leaders from 7 European Nations along with Norway and Britain, met at a summit in Belgium. They pledged to increase offshore wind production in the North Sea. The move is an effort to reduce reliance on Russian gas and reduce Carbon-Di-oxide emitting fossil fuels. The leaders pledged to speed up their building of wind farms, work on Carbon capture, and develop renewable Hydrogen projects in the region.

Leaders of 7 European Nations pledge to make North Sea a hub for green energy

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg travelled to the Troll A platform in the North Sea on Friday (March 17). The platform extracts gas from Norway's biggest gas field. The visit has drawn attention to and underlined importance of Norwegian gas for the energy security of Europe. After Russia reduced natural gas supply to Europe last year, Norway became the largest gas supplier to the EU.

Stoltenberg and von der Leyen will "discuss the protection and resilience of critical infrastructure and gas supplies to Europe" with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere and Equinor CEO Anders Opedal, the PM's office said in a statement.

Security at Norwegian petroleum installations was increased after the explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines on Sept. 26, 2022 in the Baltic Sea, with NATO allies providing military support.

Troll alone covered 11.3% of EU gas consumption last year, according to operator Equinor. The field accounts for one third of daily Norwegian gas exports to Europe.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-defence-minister-awards-pilots-involved-in-downing-of-us-drone-over-black-sea-573006">Russian defence minister awards pilots involved in downing of US drone over Black Sea</a>

Troll's gas is piped to a processing plant on Norway's west coast before it is piped again to the European Union and Britain.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-poland-slovakia-to-send-13-mig-29-fighter-jets-to-war-torn-ukraine-572961">After Poland, Slovakia to send 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to war-torn Ukraine; Kremlin reacts</a>

Russia has long been a major supplier of natural gas to Europe. But in the aftermath of the Ukraine war, as the EU imposed economic sanctions on Russia, the latter chose to squeeze the supply in retaliation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg travelled to the Troll A platform in the North Sea on Friday (March 17).

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg travelled to the Troll A platform in the North Sea on Friday (March 17). The platform extracts gas from Norway's biggest gas field. The visit has drawn attention to and underlined importance of Norwegian gas for the energy security of Europe. After Russia reduced natural gas supply to Europe last year, Norway became the largest gas supplier to the EU. Stoltenberg and von der Leyen will "discuss the protection and resilience of critical infrastructure and gas supplies to Europe" with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere and Equinor CEO Anders Opedal, the PM's office said in a statement. Security at Norwegian petroleum installations was increased after the explosions on the Nord Stream pipelines on Sept. 26, 2022 in the Baltic Sea, with NATO allies providing military support. Troll alone covered 11.3% of EU gas consumption last year, according to operator Equinor. The field accounts for one third of daily Norwegian gas exports to Europe. Also Read | Russian defence minister awards pilots involved in downing of US drone over Black Sea Troll's gas is piped to a processing plant on Norway's west coast before it is piped again to the European Union and Britain. Also Read | After Poland, Slovakia to send 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to war-torn Ukraine; Kremlin reacts Russia has long been a major supplier of natural gas to Europe. But in the aftermath of the Ukraine war, as the EU imposed economic sanctions on Russia, the latter chose to squeeze the supply in retaliation. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

NATO, EU chiefs visit North Sea gas platform as Norway compensates Russia supply slash

Energy giants BP, Orsted fight over North Sea. Oil major BP plans to build a vast carbon capture project beneath the sea. While, Orsted aims to build a huge offshore windfarm to help the country meet renewable goals.

WION Climate Tracker: Energy giants BP, Orsted fight over North Sea

According to a research, a World War II shipwreck is still polluting the marine microbiology in the North Sea. The ship is leaking explosives and other toxic elements into the ocean floor more than 80 years after it was sunk. The new research was published Tuesday in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science.

“The general public is often quite interested in shipwrecks because of their historical value, but the potential environmental impact of these wrecks is often overlooked,” study author Josefien Van Landuyt, a doctoral candidate, bioengineer and microbiologist at Ghent University in Belgium, was quotes as saying by CNN.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/1700-year-old-roman-shipwreck-reveals-perfectly-preserved-artifacts-460365">1700-year-old Roman shipwreck reveals perfectly preserved artifacts</a>

The V-1302 John Mahn is currently in the Belgian side of North Sea and initially served as a German fishing trawler. During World War II, it was requisitioned by the German Navy to serve as a patrol boat. The ship was attacked on February 12, 1942 by six British Royal Air Force Hawker Hurricane aircraft patrolling the Belgian coast.

It was also hit by bombs, leading it to sink and killing 11 sailors. The cargo included munitions and coal which went down along with the boat, and are now seeping into the sea. Heavy metals such as nickel, copper and arsenic and explosive compounds, along with hydrocarbons, coal and crude oil, were also found.

A study was conducted into the shipwrecks located across the North Sea bed as part of the North Sea Wrecks project. It found that across the world’s oceans, shipwrecks from both world wars have anywhere between 2.5 million and 20.4 million metric tonnes of petroleum products. The researchers are hopeful that the authorities will take the matter seriously and consider ways to save the ecosystem.

Van Landuyt also said that shipwrecks become more and more dangerous to the environment over time as corrosion opens up enclosed spaces.&nbsp;

“While wrecks can function as artificial reefs and have tremendous human story-telling value, we should not forget that they can be dangerous, human-made objects which were unintentionally introduced into a natural environment,” Van Landuyt said. “Today, new shipwrecks are removed for this exact reason.”

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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According to a research, a World War II shipwreck is still polluting the marine microbiology in the North Sea. The ship is leaking explosives and other toxic elements into the ocean floor more than 80 years after it was sunk.

According to a research, a World War II shipwreck is still polluting the marine microbiology in the North Sea. The ship is leaking explosives and other toxic elements into the ocean floor more than 80 years after it was sunk. The new research was published Tuesday in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science. “The general public is often quite interested in shipwrecks because of their historical value, but the potential environmental impact of these wrecks is often overlooked,” study author Josefien Van Landuyt, a doctoral candidate, bioengineer and microbiologist at Ghent University in Belgium, was quotes as saying by CNN. Also Read | 1700-year-old Roman shipwreck reveals perfectly preserved artifacts The V-1302 John Mahn is currently in the Belgian side of North Sea and initially served as a German fishing trawler. During World War II, it was requisitioned by the German Navy to serve as a patrol boat. The ship was attacked on February 12, 1942 by six British Royal Air Force Hawker Hurricane aircraft patrolling the Belgian coast. It was also hit by bombs, leading it to sink and killing 11 sailors. The cargo included munitions and coal which went down along with the boat, and are now seeping into the sea. Heavy metals such as nickel, copper and arsenic and explosive compounds, along with hydrocarbons, coal and crude oil, were also found. A study was conducted into the shipwrecks located across the North Sea bed as part of the North Sea Wrecks project. It found that across the world’s oceans, shipwrecks from both world wars have anywhere between 2.5 million and 20.4 million metric tonnes of petroleum products. The researchers are hopeful that the authorities will take the matter seriously and consider ways to save the ecosystem. Van Landuyt also said that shipwrecks become more and more dangerous to the environment over time as corrosion opens up enclosed spaces. “While wrecks can function as artificial reefs and have tremendous human story-telling value, we should not forget that they can be dangerous, human-made objects which were unintentionally introduced into a natural environment,” Van Landuyt said. “Today, new shipwrecks are removed for this exact reason.” (With inputs from agencies)

WWII shipwreck still polluting North Sea ocean floor 80 years after going down

As climate change continues to impact life forms around the world, conservationists are concerned about the dwindling numbers of the North Sea Puffins.

Puffins numbers low in Farne Islands, decline attributed to Global warming

The Netherlands, accustomed to wet weather, was midway through what would become one of the wettest Julys on record, and Patrick van der Broeck was getting edgy.

Germany and Belgium were experiencing epochal floods that would ultimately kill 220 people, and the surging waters were bearing down on the low-lying Netherlands. “All the rain that falls across the border, inevitably will make its way to us,” said van der Broeck, the senior hydrologist for Limburg province.

Earlier that month, though, Dutch officials had celebrated the completion of a new flood control project, one that turned previous such efforts on their head. Instead of further damming the Maas River and its tributaries, as conventional flood control would do, they had decided to work with nature — diverting the waters into a 1,300-acre flood plain created to duplicate the river’s old overflow channels.

“I was nervous,” van der Broeck said. “I wondered whether our project would hold up,”

He had reason to be. Extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common, in Europe and worldwide. The deadly torrential rain in Europe this summer was considered a 400-year event; in China, more than 20 inches of rain fell in just two days; New York City set records for an hour’s rainfall, setting off flash floods that killed dozens of people in the region; the drought-stricken American West is ablaze.

Yet no one died in the Netherlands in the July flooding. Some tributaries did wreak extensive damage in the border region, but along the Maas River, which swelled to epic proportions, large urban centers stayed safe and dry.

The Dutch are experienced in water management, having dealt with sea-level rise and river floods long before climate change became a concern. More than half the country lies beneath sea level, and while the ocean is held back by more conventional flood control methods, river management has changed drastically.

Van der Broeck’s project, Maaspark Ooijen-Wanssum, a nature preserve near the small city of Wanssum, lies at the heart of the new approach. During the flooding it did exactly what it was supposed to, absorbing so much water that levels in parts of the Maas River dropped by 13 inches, enough to avert a major disaster.

“If we hadn’t freed up the areas to reroute the excess water from the Maas River, Venlo and Roermond would have been flooded,” van der Broeck said of two regional cities. “For a long time we have worked against nature,” he said. “The river is telling us it needs more space. We shouldn’t fight that. We should cooperate with nature.”

The roots of this new thinking go back to two huge floods in the 1990s that forced the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of people. Shaken by that disaster, Dutch officials and hydrologists eventually concluded that, with major floods occurring more frequently and with greater intensity, raising barriers and digging canals was no longer enough to manage the water.

They decided to give more space to the natural flows of major rivers, instead of increasing the height of the levees. In 2007, the country began a $2.7 billion project called Room for the River that has pursued more than 30 projects along the Maas and Rhine rivers to control flooding by creating catchment areas that often mimic the natural flood plains.

The Maaspark Ooijen-Wanssum project, finished just before the July downpour, is a prime example of this idea. An old closed-off tributary of the Maas river was reopened along water paths used for thousands of years. Some dikes were removed to allow for water to flow in when necessary; others were placed strategically to send the water through natural channels. Several houses had to be destroyed to create more overflow space and, effectively, more nature.

On a recent visit, water was present everywhere, following ancient riverbeds. Insects buzzed around, as older Dutch couples rode by on their electric bikes at the end of a rare sunny day.

Beavers, badgers and a wide variety of migratory birds now populate the park, which before the redevelopment consisted mostly of farmland. “It’s just very nice to walk here,” van der Broeck said. “It’s an improvement on all fronts.”

The Netherlands is now filled with such catchment basins, many a boon to daily life but doubling as reservoirs for when the rivers swell.

Still, experts say, not enough is being done. While defenses against the sea are in place (but in need of constant maintenance) and catchment areas have been built along big rivers, the latest rainstorms showed that even smaller creeks, ditches and sewers can turn deadly.

“I live relatively far above the sea level, but during that storm there was so much water it was unable to exit through the sewage system, so it came up through our shower into our bedroom,” said Piet Dircke, the director of water management at Arcadis, a design and engineering consultancy that is currently helping shore up coastal flood defenses around Manhattan and helped design the new storm defenses around New Orleans that performed well during Hurricane Ida.

“A combination of extreme rain and lack of places to dispose of that water can turn small creeks into killers,” he said. “Normally, we have water shortages over the summer, so nobody imagined rain intensities and volumes of these proportions. We simply don’t have charts for such events.”

Disasters have always propelled Dutch water management. In 1953 the North Sea flood, set off by a combination of strong winds, high tides and low pressure, killed 1,835 people after dikes were breached on 67 locations in the western part of the Netherlands. In response, the Dutch embarked on a plan called Delta Works, creating massive sea defenses aimed at preventing one-in-10,000-year floods.

Since then, the government has created not only Room for Rivers but also Delta Program, which now oversees all the country’s water management issues. July’s extreme rainstorm, however, suggests it is once again time to re-evaluate the country’s water defenses, Dircke said. “Increasing dikes by 10 centimeters is useless,” he added, “and we should map sensitive places.”

By these he means hospitals, schools, nursing homes, computer server facilities and critical infrastructure — all crucial to evaluate for their vulnerability to flooding. “If an elderly care home is next to a river, we should consider replacing it, as evacuating such vulnerable people during an emergency takes up too much time,” Dircke said.

Such measures need a lot of investment, he and other experts agree. Yet, “if we do nothing, the costs will be much higher,” said Peter Glas, the head of Delta Program. He warned that if the Netherlands fails to take sufficient measures to protect critical infrastructure, credit rating companies might lower its bond rating from its current triple A status.

“Climate change is here,” Glas said. “We need to adjust. If you don’t want to do it for the planet, or for your safety, you should do it for your wallet.”

The Netherlands, accustomed to wet weather, was midway through what would become one of the wettest Julys on record, and Patrick van der Broeck was getting edgy.

The Netherlands, accustomed to wet weather, was midway through what would become one of the wettest Julys on record, and Patrick van der Broeck was getting edgy. Germany and Belgium were experiencing epochal floods that would ultimately kill 220 people, and the surging waters were bearing down on the low-lying Netherlands. “All the rain that falls across the border, inevitably will make its way to us,” said van der Broeck, the senior hydrologist for Limburg province. Earlier that month, though, Dutch officials had celebrated the completion of a new flood control project, one that turned previous such efforts on their head. Instead of further damming the Maas River and its tributaries, as conventional flood control would do, they had decided to work with nature — diverting the waters into a 1,300-acre flood plain created to duplicate the river’s old overflow channels. “I was nervous,” van der Broeck said. “I wondered whether our project would hold up,” He had reason to be. Extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common, in Europe and worldwide. The deadly torrential rain in Europe this summer was considered a 400-year event; in China, more than 20 inches of rain fell in just two days; New York City set records for an hour’s rainfall, setting off flash floods that killed dozens of people in the region; the drought-stricken American West is ablaze. Yet no one died in the Netherlands in the July flooding. Some tributaries did wreak extensive damage in the border region, but along the Maas River, which swelled to epic proportions, large urban centers stayed safe and dry. The Dutch are experienced in water management, having dealt with sea-level rise and river floods long before climate change became a concern. More than half the country lies beneath sea level, and while the ocean is held back by more conventional flood control methods, river management has changed drastically. Van der Broeck’s project, Maaspark Ooijen-Wanssum, a nature preserve near the small city of Wanssum, lies at the heart of the new approach. During the flooding it did exactly what it was supposed to, absorbing so much water that levels in parts of the Maas River dropped by 13 inches, enough to avert a major disaster. “If we hadn’t freed up the areas to reroute the excess water from the Maas River, Venlo and Roermond would have been flooded,” van der Broeck said of two regional cities. “For a long time we have worked against nature,” he said. “The river is telling us it needs more space. We shouldn’t fight that. We should cooperate with nature.” The roots of this new thinking go back to two huge floods in the 1990s that forced the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of people. Shaken by that disaster, Dutch officials and hydrologists eventually concluded that, with major floods occurring more frequently and with greater intensity, raising barriers and digging canals was no longer enough to manage the water. They decided to give more space to the natural flows of major rivers, instead of increasing the height of the levees. In 2007, the country began a $2.7 billion project called Room for the River that has pursued more than 30 projects along the Maas and Rhine rivers to control flooding by creating catchment areas that often mimic the natural flood plains. The Maaspark Ooijen-Wanssum project, finished just before the July downpour, is a prime example of this idea. An old closed-off tributary of the Maas river was reopened along water paths used for thousands of years. Some dikes were removed to allow for water to flow in when necessary; others were placed strategically to send the water through natural channels. Several houses had to be destroyed to create more overflow space and, effectively, more nature. On a recent visit, water was present everywhere, following ancient riverbeds. Insects buzzed around, as older Dutch couples rode by on their electric bikes at the end of a rare sunny day. Beavers, badgers and a wide variety of migratory birds now populate the park, which before the redevelopment consisted mostly of farmland. “It’s just very nice to walk here,” van der Broeck said. “It’s an improvement on all fronts.” The Netherlands is now filled with such catchment basins, many a boon to daily life but doubling as reservoirs for when the rivers swell. Still, experts say, not enough is being done. While defenses against the sea are in place (but in need of constant maintenance) and catchment areas have been built along big rivers, the latest rainstorms showed that even smaller creeks, ditches and sewers can turn deadly. “I live relatively far above the sea level, but during that storm there was so much water it was unable to exit through the sewage system, so it came up through our shower into our bedroom,” said Piet Dircke, the director of water management at Arcadis, a design and engineering consultancy that is currently helping shore up coastal flood defenses around Manhattan and helped design the new storm defenses around New Orleans that performed well during Hurricane Ida. “A combination of extreme rain and lack of places to dispose of that water can turn small creeks into killers,” he said. “Normally, we have water shortages over the summer, so nobody imagined rain intensities and volumes of these proportions. We simply don’t have charts for such events.” Disasters have always propelled Dutch water management. In 1953 the North Sea flood, set off by a combination of strong winds, high tides and low pressure, killed 1,835 people after dikes were breached on 67 locations in the western part of the Netherlands. In response, the Dutch embarked on a plan called Delta Works, creating massive sea defenses aimed at preventing one-in-10,000-year floods. Since then, the government has created not only Room for Rivers but also Delta Program, which now oversees all the country’s water management issues. July’s extreme rainstorm, however, suggests it is once again time to re-evaluate the country’s water defenses, Dircke said. “Increasing dikes by 10 centimeters is useless,” he added, “and we should map sensitive places.” By these he means hospitals, schools, nursing homes, computer server facilities and critical infrastructure — all crucial to evaluate for their vulnerability to flooding. “If an elderly care home is next to a river, we should consider replacing it, as evacuating such vulnerable people during an emergency takes up too much time,” Dircke said. Such measures need a lot of investment, he and other experts agree. Yet, “if we do nothing, the costs will be much higher,” said Peter Glas, the head of Delta Program. He warned that if the Netherlands fails to take sufficient measures to protect critical infrastructure, credit rating companies might lower its bond rating from its current triple A status. “Climate change is here,” Glas said. “We need to adjust. If you don’t want to do it for the planet, or for your safety, you should do it for your wallet.”

To avoid river flooding, go with the flow, the Dutch say

Crew members on board a Dutch cargo ship were rescued after raising an alert in the North Sea. The Norwegian Coast Guard launched a dramatic rescue operation. Now the abandoned ship, running adrift is in danger of capsizing.

Crew of Dutch cargo ship evacuated in stormy weather

Denmark has approved plans to build an artificial island in the North Sea that could generate wind power for at least three million households, a government spokesman said Friday.

Work is due to begin by 2026, he added.&nbsp;

The Danish parliament adopted in June a political environmental framework aimed at reducing the country's CO2 emissions by 70 percent by 2030, which included plans for the world's first "energy hubs" on the island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea and in the North Sea.

On Thursday, parliament went further by approving a plan to place the North Sea hub on an artificial island, with a wind power farm that will initially supply three gigawatts (GW) of electricity.

That could later be scaled up to 10 GW -- enough for 10 million households -- according to the Danish Ministry of Climate, Energy and Utilities.

The island is to be majority owned by the Danish government in partnership with private companies.

Its final size is yet to be decided but it is expected to cover between 120,000 to 460,000 square meters (about 1.3 to 5 million square feet), ministry spokesperson Emil Lee Madsen told AFP.

The total number of wind turbines has not been finalised either, but estimates range between 200 and 600 units at "a previously unseen scale," with the tip of the blades reaching as high as 260 meters (850 feet) above the sea.

The project's next steps include environmental impact assessments and talks with potential investors, so construction is still some years off.

"At this point it seems like initial construction will actually begin around 2026, and hopefully it will be finished sometime between 2030 and 2033," Lee Madsen said, noting that some delays were probable so closer to 2033 was more realistic.

At full capacity, the island would provide more wind power than Denmark needs for its population of 5.8 million.

Other countries could then plug into the hub to "increase the efficiency of the electricity production from the wind farms by distributing it across the European power grid," the ministry said.

Denmark has approved plans to build an artificial island in the North Sea that could generate wind power for at least three million households, a government spokesman said Friday.

Denmark has approved plans to build an artificial island in the North Sea that could generate wind power for at least three million households, a government spokesman said Friday. Work is due to begin by 2026, he added. The Danish parliament adopted in June a political environmental framework aimed at reducing the country's CO2 emissions by 70 percent by 2030, which included plans for the world's first "energy hubs" on the island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea and in the North Sea. On Thursday, parliament went further by approving a plan to place the North Sea hub on an artificial island, with a wind power farm that will initially supply three gigawatts (GW) of electricity. That could later be scaled up to 10 GW -- enough for 10 million households -- according to the Danish Ministry of Climate, Energy and Utilities. The island is to be majority owned by the Danish government in partnership with private companies. Its final size is yet to be decided but it is expected to cover between 120,000 to 460,000 square meters (about 1.3 to 5 million square feet), ministry spokesperson Emil Lee Madsen told AFP. The total number of wind turbines has not been finalised either, but estimates range between 200 and 600 units at "a previously unseen scale," with the tip of the blades reaching as high as 260 meters (850 feet) above the sea. The project's next steps include environmental impact assessments and talks with potential investors, so construction is still some years off. "At this point it seems like initial construction will actually begin around 2026, and hopefully it will be finished sometime between 2030 and 2033," Lee Madsen said, noting that some delays were probable so closer to 2033 was more realistic. At full capacity, the island would provide more wind power than Denmark needs for its population of 5.8 million. Other countries could then plug into the hub to "increase the efficiency of the electricity production from the wind farms by distributing it across the European power grid," the ministry said.

Denmark moves forward on North Sea 'energy island'

Denmark approved a plan on Thursday to build the world`s first energy island in the North Sea that will produce and store enough green energy to cover the electricity needs of 3 million European households. 
 
The artificial island, which in its initial phase will be the size of 18 football fields, will be linked to hundreds of offshore wind turbines and will supply both power to households and green hydrogen for use in shipping, aviation, industry and heavy transport. 
 
The move came as the European Union unveiled plans to transform its electricity system to rely mostly on renewable energy within a decade and increase its offshore wind energy capacity 25-fold by 2050. 
 
"This is truly a great moment for Denmark and for the global green transition," Energy Minister Dan Jorgensen told a press briefing. 
 
"(The island) will make a big contribution to the realisation of the enormous potential for European offshore wind," he said. 
 
The energy island, which will cost around 210 billion Danish crowns ($33.9 billion) to build, is an important part of Denmark`s legally binding target to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2030 from 1990 levels, one of the world`s most ambitious. 
 
The Nordic country, home to wind turbine maker Vestas and offshore wind farm developer Orsted, was with its favourable wind speeds a pioneer in both onshore and offshore wind, building the world`s first offshore wind farm almost 30 years ago. 
 
In December, it decided to halt the search for oil and gas in the Danish part of the North Sea and hopes instead to make it a hub for renewable energy and carbon storage. 
 
The island, to be located 80 kilometres off Denmark`s west coast, and its surrounding wind turbines will have an initial capacity of 3 gigawatt and be operational around 2033. 
 
Denmark also has plans for an energy island in the Baltic Sea. The state will hold a controlling stake in both islands.

Denmark approved a plan on Thursday to build the world`s first energy island in the North Sea that will produce and store enough green energy to cover the electricity needs of 3 million European households.

Denmark approved a plan on Thursday to build the world`s first energy island in the North Sea that will produce and store enough green energy to cover the electricity needs of 3 million European households. The artificial island, which in its initial phase will be the size of 18 football fields, will be linked to hundreds of offshore wind turbines and will supply both power to households and green hydrogen for use in shipping, aviation, industry and heavy transport. The move came as the European Union unveiled plans to transform its electricity system to rely mostly on renewable energy within a decade and increase its offshore wind energy capacity 25-fold by 2050. "This is truly a great moment for Denmark and for the global green transition," Energy Minister Dan Jorgensen told a press briefing. "(The island) will make a big contribution to the realisation of the enormous potential for European offshore wind," he said. The energy island, which will cost around 210 billion Danish crowns ($33.9 billion) to build, is an important part of Denmark`s legally binding target to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2030 from 1990 levels, one of the world`s most ambitious. The Nordic country, home to wind turbine maker Vestas and offshore wind farm developer Orsted, was with its favourable wind speeds a pioneer in both onshore and offshore wind, building the world`s first offshore wind farm almost 30 years ago. In December, it decided to halt the search for oil and gas in the Danish part of the North Sea and hopes instead to make it a hub for renewable energy and carbon storage. The island, to be located 80 kilometres off Denmark`s west coast, and its surrounding wind turbines will have an initial capacity of 3 gigawatt and be operational around 2033. Denmark also has plans for an energy island in the Baltic Sea. The state will hold a controlling stake in both islands.

Denmark to create world's first energy island in the North Sea

A US fighter jet on a training mission from a British Royal Air Force base in eastern England crashed in the North Sea on Monday.

"A US Air Force F-15C Eagle crashed at approximately 0940 (0840 GMT) today (Monday) in the North Sea," said USAF Captain Miranda T. Simmons, from RAF Lakenheath.

"The cause of the crash, as well as the status of the pilot, are unknown at this time, and UK Search and Rescue have been called to support."

The plane took off from the RAF Lakenheath base, near Mildenhall, in Suffolk, which hosts the 48th Fighter Wing of the US Air Force.

The BBC said the plane was believed to have gone down 74 nautical miles (137 kilometres) off the East Yorkshire coast.

Citing a flight tracker website, Sky News television said the plane circled in the area before disappearing.

There was no immediate response from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency when contacted by AFP.

A US fighter jet on a training mission from a British Royal Air Force base in eastern England crashed in the North Sea on Monday. "A US Air Force F-15C Eagle crashed at approximately 0940 (0840 GMT) today (Monday) in the North Sea," said USAF Captain Miranda T.

A US fighter jet on a training mission from a British Royal Air Force base in eastern England crashed in the North Sea on Monday. "A US Air Force F-15C Eagle crashed at approximately 0940 (0840 GMT) today (Monday) in the North Sea," said USAF Captain Miranda T. Simmons, from RAF Lakenheath. "The cause of the crash, as well as the status of the pilot, are unknown at this time, and UK Search and Rescue have been called to support." The plane took off from the RAF Lakenheath base, near Mildenhall, in Suffolk, which hosts the 48th Fighter Wing of the US Air Force. The BBC said the plane was believed to have gone down 74 nautical miles (137 kilometres) off the East Yorkshire coast. Citing a flight tracker website, Sky News television said the plane circled in the area before disappearing. There was no immediate response from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency when contacted by AFP.

US Air Force F-15 fighter jet crashes in North Sea, pilot missing

Oil prices on Wednesday slipped away from two-and-a-half year highs hit the previous session as the gradual resumption of flows through a major North Sea pipeline made up for supply disruption in Libya.

But the two outages in quick succession have highlighted how much tighter global oil markets have become a year into supply cuts led by OPEC and Russia.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $59.73 a barrel at 0421 GMT, down 24 cents from their last settlement. WTI broke through $60 a barrel for the first time since June 2015 in the previous session.

Brent crude futures were at $66.71 a barrel, down 31 cents after breaking through $67 for the first time since May 2015 the previous day.

&quot;Crude spiked sharply in reaction to an explosion at a Libyan pipeline...(but) the price spike came with light volumes as London was closed for Boxing Day,&quot; said Sukrit Vijayakar, director of energy consultancy Trifecta.

Libya lost around 90,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil supplies from a blast on a pipeline feeding Es Sider port on Tuesday.

Wednesday&#39;s dips were a result of the gradual return of the 450,000 bpd capacity Forties pipeline system in the North Sea. Flows through Forties will return to normal early in the New Year, operator Ineos said.

Both the Forties and Libyan outages, which together amount to around 500,000 bpd, are small in a global context where both production and demand are approaching 100 million bpd.

But the disruptions highlight that markets have tightened significantly a year into voluntary supply restraint led by top producer Russia and the Middle East-dominated Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

Data from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that following rampant oversupply in 2015, global oil markets gradually came into balance by 2016 and started to show a slight supply deficit this year, resulting in a reduction of global fuel inventories.

EIA data implies a slight supply shortfall of 180,000 bpd for the first quarter of 2018.

OPEC and Russia started withholding production last January, and the current schedule is to continue cutting throughout 2018.

A major factor countering efforts by OPEC and Russia efforts to prop up prices is US oil production, which has soared more than 16 percent since mid-2016 and is fast approaching 10 million bpd.

Only OPEC king-pin Saudi Arabia and Russia produce more.

The latest US production figures are due to be published by the EIA on Thursday.

Wednesday's dips were a result of the gradual return of the 450,000 bpd capacity Forties pipeline system in the North Sea.

Oil prices on Wednesday slipped away from two-and-a-half year highs hit the previous session as the gradual resumption of flows through a major North Sea pipeline made up for supply disruption in Libya. But the two outages in quick succession have highlighted how much tighter global oil markets have become a year into supply cuts led by OPEC and Russia. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $59.73 a barrel at 0421 GMT, down 24 cents from their last settlement. WTI broke through $60 a barrel for the first time since June 2015 in the previous session. Brent crude futures were at $66.71 a barrel, down 31 cents after breaking through $67 for the first time since May 2015 the previous day. "Crude spiked sharply in reaction to an explosion at a Libyan pipeline...(but) the price spike came with light volumes as London was closed for Boxing Day," said Sukrit Vijayakar, director of energy consultancy Trifecta. Libya lost around 90,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil supplies from a blast on a pipeline feeding Es Sider port on Tuesday. Wednesday's dips were a result of the gradual return of the 450,000 bpd capacity Forties pipeline system in the North Sea. Flows through Forties will return to normal early in the New Year, operator Ineos said. Both the Forties and Libyan outages, which together amount to around 500,000 bpd, are small in a global context where both production and demand are approaching 100 million bpd. But the disruptions highlight that markets have tightened significantly a year into voluntary supply restraint led by top producer Russia and the Middle East-dominated Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Data from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that following rampant oversupply in 2015, global oil markets gradually came into balance by 2016 and started to show a slight supply deficit this year, resulting in a reduction of global fuel inventories. EIA data implies a slight supply shortfall of 180,000 bpd for the first quarter of 2018. OPEC and Russia started withholding production last January, and the current schedule is to continue cutting throughout 2018. A major factor countering efforts by OPEC and Russia efforts to prop up prices is US oil production, which has soared more than 16 percent since mid-2016 and is fast approaching 10 million bpd. Only OPEC king-pin Saudi Arabia and Russia produce more. The latest US production figures are due to be published by the EIA on Thursday.

Oil prices slip away from 2015 highs, but market remains tight

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