Extinction Rebellion demands an end to new fossil fuel projects amid climate crisis
A group of scientists and Extinction Rebellion (XR) activists have engaged in a dramatic act of civil disobedience by gluing themselves to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) building in London. Their protest is centred on what they call the “irresponsible and dangerous pursuit of new fossil fuel development” by the UK government.
XR claims that expanding fossil fuel production directly undermines the UK’s climate goals and hampers progress toward meeting international climate agreements. This latest protest marks part of a week-long series of actions targeting key economic and political institutions.
Kwasi Kwarteng, the Business Secretary, responded to the demonstration by firmly stating that the government will not cease domestic oil and gas production. He defended the decision, highlighting the risks to energy security, job opportunities, and industry stability, while suggesting that halting domestic production would only lead to increased foreign reliance.
Meanwhile, XR activists also targeted Shell’s London headquarters on the same day, gluing themselves to the reception desk to demand a meeting with CEO Ben van Beurden. Shell has since reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and investing in low-carbon technologies, including offshore wind and electric transport. However, the company has called for safe and non-disruptive climate activism to ensure the safety of its employees and operations.
On Tuesday, climate protesters had already blocked entrances to Lloyd’s of London, a major insurance market, using chains and superglue. They are demanding that Lloyd’s stop underwriting projects linked to fossil fuels, arguing that financial institutions must take responsibility for climate change mitigation. Lloyd’s has expressed support for constructive climate engagement and is actively working toward a responsible energy transition.
Emily Cox, a social scientist and XR protester, criticised the government’s ongoing subsidies and tax breaks to fossil fuel companies while the public increasingly supports renewable energy and energy-efficiency measures. She said: “The government is choosing fossil fuels over the public interest and a livable planet.”
Responding to these actions, a BEIS spokesperson reiterated the government’s energy security strategy, which aims to balance transitioning toward renewable energy while maintaining domestic oil and gas supplies to prevent risks to energy security and employment.
The protesters’ message is clear: without immediate action to phase out new fossil fuel investments, the UK risks prioritising short-term economic measures over climate stability and public health.
