Aker BP joins UN program for reduction of methane gas emissions

We strengthen our efforts to monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through membership in OGMP 2.0 (Oil and Gas Methane Partnership), which is an initiative under the UN’s environmental program. “Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that it is equally important to focus on as CO2”, says Axel Kelley, discipline leader for climate and sustainability.

The source to Aker BP’s methane emissions are cold ventilation, incomplete combustion of natural gas and diesel, and leaks from process plants. The emissions are monitored, quantified and reported to the environmental authorities on an annual base in accordance with national industry standards.

Through membership in OGMP 2.0, Aker BP will join forces with Equinor, BP and other major oil and gas companies and commit to monitoring and reducing global methane emissions in accordance with best practice.

“Through even better monitoring, we will be able to uncover leakage points and identify source streams where it is possible to reduce emissions of methane. Reducing our methane emissions is an integral part of our climate efforts”, says Axel Kelley.

Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to warming of the atmosphere, and is the second most important greenhouse gas from human activity after carbon dioxide. Annually, around 1,000 tons of methane are released from Aker BP’s production platforms and drilling rigs. This figure must be reduced.

“We have set a long-term goal of limiting the methane intensity to less than 0.05%, which is far more ambitious than the goal for upstream activities of 0.2%. It aligns well with our plan to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and close to zero by 2050,” says Kelley.

“It is becoming increasingly important for the industry to handle methane emissions in a responsible manner and to have transparent and accurate reporting”, says Marit Blaasmo, Senior Vice President for People & Safety at Aker BP.

“The capital market is also pushing for change. OGMP 2.0 is the gold standard in methane measurement, reporting and target setting, and is globally recognized. Membership in OGMP 2.0 provides comprehensive guidance for our strategy for reducing methane emissions and helps us meet the expectations of external stakeholders”, says Blaasmo.