When we think about responding to the climate crisis, transitioning our energy systems away from oil and gas has always been clear. But what about investment in petrochemicals? Petrochemicals are fossil-fuel-derived substances – they’re used to produce a range of synthetic materials and substances, including plastics and fertilisers. Not only are they heavily reliant on fossil fuels, but they have the highest energy demand of all industrial sectors, and will likely override l

Despite heavy sanctions, Russia’s war machine is still fuelled by the revenues from their oil and gas, which are the raw materials required to manufacture plastic products. While countries like the UK are no longer direct consumers, loopholes continue to allow products made from Russian oil to infiltrate the global market. Despite a drop in exports to Europe, the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) found that in 2024, total export revenues fell by only 5 perce

98% of plastic is made from natural organic materials like oil and gas. Ranking in the top three global producers of oil and natural gas. In the context of Russia’s war on Ukraine, purchasing Russian hydrocarbons to make products like plastic is inextricably linked to the funding of the Russian war economy. The question then is whether our current international regulations are effective at responding to this dual problem? Before the war, Russia’s hydrocarbon industry accounte

In short: Ammonia is unique among petrochemicals – its molecule contains no carbon, yet more than 99% of ammonia is produced using fossil fuels. It is the foundation of industrial agriculture but also generates enormous greenhouse gas emissions and locks food production into fossil fuel supply chains. Instead of decreasing our reliance on ammonia, the industry is seeking new markets by promoting ammonia as a "green" fuel for shipping and power generation. This article explore

In response to recent attacks by the US-Israel alliance, Iran restricted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Before the war, around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas passed through this route. This shipping restriction disrupted energy supply chains and led to a big increase in global oil prices. So what’s the connection with plastic? Oil and gas aren’t only burnt as fuel for energy. They are used to make petrochemicals, which are manufactured into a wide range