Story perspectives

Venezuela's Gas Flaring: Environmental Crisis and Health Risks

3/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Venezuela wastes natural gas through gas flaring in oil extraction, especially in Monagas state.
Experts say the practice harms the environment and poses health risks to local residents.
Gas flares create light pollution, making the region brighter than Caracas at night.
A former resident recalls months without domestic gas while flares burn, noting that underinvestment drives flaring rates, with 50% of emitted gas burned, causing financial losses and health issues.

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Story summary

Venezuela wastes natural gas through gas flaring in oil extraction, especially in Monagas state.
Experts say the practice harms the environment and poses health risks to local residents.
Gas flares create light pollution, making the region brighter than Caracas at night.
A former resident recalls months without domestic gas while flares burn, noting that underinvestment drives flaring rates, with 50% of emitted gas burned, causing financial losses and health issues.