The UK Supreme Court’s recent ruling mandates planning authorities to consider the full climate impact of burning fossil fuels when granting permissions, overturning Surrey County Council’s approval to extend an oil drilling well in Surrey.
On June 20, 2024, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels must be considered when granting planning permissions. This decision overturns Surrey County Council’s approval to extend an oil drilling well at Horse Hill, Surrey. The case was brought by campaigner Sarah Finch, arguing that greenhouse gas emissions from burning the extracted oil, known as “downstream emissions,” should be included in environmental assessments. The ruling could affect future fossil fuel projects, mandating planning authorities to consider the full climate impact. The decision comes as a significant victory for environmental activists and sets a new legal precedent in the UK.
