Reducing methane emissions, even the small releases known as “fugitive emissions,” is a crucial aspect of our global well management principles and where appropriate we use technology to help. Audio visual olfactory (AVO) inspections are routinely performed as part of operator rounds to identify any leaks or other issues. Leak detection and repair (LDAR) is a work practice used to identify and quickly repair leaking components, including valves, compressors, pumps, tanks and connectors, to reduce GHG emissions and increase efficiency. At many of our locations, especially those with control devices and compressor stations, we instituted a periodic (typically annual) voluntary fugitive monitoring program using forward looking infrared (FLIR) optical gas imaging (OGI) cameras to enhance our LDAR.
Read more about how we manage GHG emissions in our operations and integrate climate change-related activities and goals into our business planning.
In some cases, green completions are not feasible due to a lack of pipeline infrastructure, insufficient natural gas flow to the surface or flow of gas that is unsuitable for recovery. In such cases the gas is flared. Flaring is a controlled burning process that safely eliminates volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as well as methane, yielding carbon dioxide and water. If safety, environmental or other conditions prevent flaring, the gas is vented.
