3 chapters across the catalog
Methane Leak Fines and Oil Refinery Operations
Texas oil industry insiders dispute the accuracy of methane leak reports issued by the Department of Energy, claiming they are based on flawed algorithms rather than physical inspections. The discussion also touches on how environmental fines are often funneled into non-profit organizations for tax write-offs.
Fifty major oil and gas companies, including ExxonMobil and BP, pledge to reduce methane emissions to near zero by 2030 by plugging leaks and ending flaring. The hosts argue that since methane is a sellable product, companies already have a financial incentive to prevent leaks, making the pledge redundant.
Porter Ranch Methane Leak, Jerry Brown State of the State
A massive, uncontrollable methane leak in Porter Ranch, Los Angeles, is described as the largest environmental disaster since the BP oil spill. Despite the severity of the leak, California Governor Jerry Brown failed to mention it during his State of the State address, focusing instead on global climate agreements. The hosts discuss the health impacts on residents and the technical difficulties in capping the 8,000-foot-deep leak.
