Disparities in Fossil Fuel Exploration: Developing Nations Halt, Developed Nations Explore

Isah O. Yakubu¹ , Hangeior I. Stephen²

1. Dept. of Environmental science and policy,University of South Florida, USA.
2. Dept. of Wildlife and Range Mgt, Joseph Sarwuan Tarkaa University, Makurdi, Nigeria.

Section:Research Paper, Product Type: Journal-Paper
Vol.10 , Issue.5 , pp.83-88, May-2024

Online published on May 31, 2024

Copyright © Isah O. Yakubu, Hangeior I. Stephen . This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
 

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Abstract :
Fossil fuel exploration has historically been a pivotal factor in driving industrialization and economic growth globally. However, the detrimental impact of fossil fuel emissions on climate change has resulted in heightened scrutiny and demands to halt further exploration. This perspective, however, overlooks the disproportionate burden placed on developing nations. These countries face pressure to cease exploration without receiving adequate financial support from developed nations and international financial institutions. This imbalance is further aggravated by inequities in energy access, with developing nations experiencing severe energy poverty despite having substantial fossil fuel reserves. While affluent nations continue to explore fossil fuels to meet their energy needs, developing countries struggle to secure clean and affordable energy sources. Transitioning to renewable energy poses significant challenges for these nations, including high costs, limited technical expertise, and insufficient financing. Concurrently, wealthy nations persist in investing in fossil fuel infrastructure, undermining global efforts to combat climate change. This study critically examines the disparities in fossil fuel exploration between industrialized and developing nations and the challenges faced by the latter in transitioning to renewable energy sources. It analyzes the environmental, political, and economic factors contributing to this disparity and explores potential solutions to facilitate a more equitable transition. Ultimately, the study underscores the importance of supporting developing countries in diversifying their energy sources and addressing energy poverty to mitigate climate change impacts and promote sustainable development.

Key-Words / Index Term :
Fossil fuel exploration, Industrialization, Economic growth, Climate change, Emissions, Energy poverty, Developing nations

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