Every week, Kate Lanier assembles the most important global energy and climate news. This week includes:
England: No shale gas fracking for two-fifths of England? Seems likely.
Bolivia: President Evo Morales “renationalized Bolivia’s oil and gas industries” and invested in the public sector. Poverty is down by 25% (extreme poverty by 43%), and the rich-poor gap “has been hugely narrowed.” Morales’ third inauguration was held in Tiwanaku, a pre-colonial city, with full participation by indigenous people. Don’t miss the portrait of 18th century rebel Bartolina Sisa, made from “local potatoes, carrots, corn and other vegetables” — and don’t miss the story of Bartolina Sisa.
Oklahoma: Daily earthquakes have people so rattled they’re discussing public protection vs private profit. Scientists point to “the deep wastewater disposal wells … [but] officials have been reluctant to crack down on an industry that accounts for a third of the economy and one in five jobs.” A case pending before the OK Supreme Court could have potential big impact.