In a global initiative led by Saudi Arabia, the country aims to increase the demand for its oil and gas in developing nations. This revelation comes from an undercover investigation by the Centre for Climate Reporting, which uncovered a program designed to make countries “hooked on its harmful products.”
The Oil Demand Sustainability Program (ODSP), directed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, involves key Saudi organizations such as the $700bn Public Investment Fund, Aramco, Sabic, and government ministries. While presented publicly as an effort to enhance energy and transport accessibility in poorer countries, the investigation reveals that all disclosed projects involve an escalation in oil and gas consumption.
Findings from the investigation highlight Saudi Arabia’s resistance to the global shift away from fossil fuels. Tactics employed include a complex scheme to distribute gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles in Asia and Africa, promoting gasoline consumption, and opposing government incentives for electric vehicles worldwide.
With the upcoming UN’s Cop28 climate summit addressing the global commitment to reducing or eliminating fossil fuels, Saudi Arabia’s efforts to sustain its oil industry are under scrutiny.
