Bicep, Brian Eno, Confidence Man among 211 musicians opposing North Sea oilfield

Campaigners say Rosebank oilfield could produce as much climate pollution as almost 70% of the UK’s annual emissions.

More than 200 artists have signed an open letter opposing the Rosebank oilfield in the North Sea.

The open letter, published by EarthPercent, the environmental initiative co-founded by Brian Eno, urges the new Labour prime minister Andy Burnham to halt the development of the Rosebank oilfield, reiterating a 2025 call to previous PM Kier Starmer to reject the proposals.

The letter comes as the UK government considers whether to grant fresh consent for Rosebank. The project was originally approved in 2023, but that decision was subsequently challenged in court, prompting a reassessment of its environmental impact.

A new consultation on the project closed on 17th August, with a government decision now expected.

The letter has been signed by 211 musicians and artists so far, including Massive Attack, BICEP, I. JORDAN, Daniel Avery, Elkka, Jon Hopkins, Confidence Man, Bake, Eliza Rose, Midland, Romy, Alexis Taylor, Bobby Gillespie, Anna Calvi, Nicolas Jaar, Shanti Celeste, HAAi and many more, as well as Eno.

In addition to the 2025 open letter, EarthPercent's actions and campaigns include the Earth Day charity compilation series with “Nature” highlighted as an artist and efforts to protect Ibiza’s landscapes.