Monday 17 September 2018

Shell sets methane intensity limit for 2025

Shell has committed to keeping the methane emissions intensity of its oil and gas assets below 0.2% by 2025.

To maintain this promise, the energy giant is implementing a number of programmes, including using infrared cameras to scan for methane leaks, deploying technology to repair holes in pipework or loose valves and replacing pneumatically-operated controllers with low emission models.

Methane has a significantly higher impact on global warming than carbon dioxide when released into the atmosphere.

Shell's intensity limit will be measured against a baseline leak rate, which currently estimated to be as high as 0.8% across the company’s existing assets.

Mark Radka, Head of UN Environment’s Energy and Climate Branch, said: "Methane is a potent greenhouse gas but it has a relatively short lifetime in the atmosphere.

"That means reducing methane emissions brings immediate climate benefits, buying some time while we work out longer term solutions."