New findings reveal that German taxpayer money has inadvertently supported gas drilling in the Amazon, contradicting the country’s commitment to halt fossil fuel financing abroad.

A recent investigation has uncovered that a drilling rig financed by German export credit guarantees has been deployed to drill new gas wells in the Brazilian Amazon. This revelation raises concerns about Germany’s adherence to its own climate commitments, particularly following the introduction of new export credit climate regulations aimed at curbing fossil fuel investments.

The report highlights a deal approved by Euler Hermes, Germany’s export credit agency, which authorized the sale of a deep drilling rig to Brazilian energy firm Eneva. Despite assurances that the rig would replace outdated equipment without expanding production capacity, evidence suggests that it has been used to drill multiple new wells in the Amazon region, leading to significant gas discoveries.

Critics, including environmental organizations, argue that this funding contradicts Germany’s pledge made in 2021 to cease financing fossil fuel projects abroad. While the country has established climate rules for export financing, loopholes remain that allow for continued support of gas projects deemed essential for national interests. This situation raises questions about Germany’s commitment to global climate goals and its impact on vulnerable ecosystems and communities.