Our Energy Sector Transition initiative focuses on reducing climate risk and expanding transparency across the industry. Energy accounts for roughly 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and the oil and gas sector contributes about 15% of energy-related emissions worldwide. Reducing global dependence on fossil fuels and decreasing the emissions intensity of oil and gas operations are among the most important steps to limit global warming. Long-lived fossil fuel assets also carry significant financial risk as the global energy system shifts toward low-carbon solutions. Accelerating decarbonization across oil and gas operations and supporting the transition of other sectors away from fossil fuels is essential for protecting both climate stability and long-term economic resilience.

Areas of Focus

Eliminating fugitive methane emissions: Methane is the second-largest driver of global warming, with a climate impact roughly 80 times stronger than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. Addressing methane emissions from oil and gas operations is one of the most cost-effective strategies available for reducing near-term temperature rise. Reported methane emissions from the sector often underestimate actual leakage, creating blind spots in planning and accountability. Our work supports efforts to expand the use of direct measurement technologies that accurately identify and quantify methane emissions throughout the oil and gas value chain.

Responsible deployment of Direct Air Capture: Direct Air Capture (DAC) is a promising climate technology, but its role must complement, not replace, immediate and sustained emissions reductions across all sectors. Engagement with leading companies in this space centers on improving transparency, strengthening accountability, and ensuring that Direct Air Capture is deployed in alignment with climate science and without delaying necessary action on fossil fuel phase down.

Featured shareholder initiatives and ongoing engagement for this sector can be found in the Current Resolutions Tracker located at the foot of this program page.

Learn more through our related programs: