Energy Insights

Fueling the Empire: The Real Cost of Australia’s Gas Strategy

Mia Watanabe Episode 37

In this episode of Energy Insights, we speak with Mia Watanabe, Climate Campaigner at Oil Change International, about the real costs of Australia’s gas strategy and its wider implications for Southeast Asia’s energy future.

Australia has become one of the world’s largest LNG exporters, but this dependence on fossil fuels raises serious concerns over environmental, social, and economic impacts. Mia explains how the continued push for LNG undermines climate goals across Asia, with public finance and corporate interests locking countries into long-term fossil fuel dependency.

The discussion also explores the urgent need for policy reform, the accelerating potential of renewables, and the opportunities for Southeast Asia to build a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

Tune in for expert insights into the role of LNG, the energy transition, and how Australia’s gas strategy is shaping the region’s climate pathway.

LinkedIn: Mia Watanabe

People on this episode