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The process of reducing, controlling, or eliminating pollution and other harmful environmental impacts. In environmental management, it often involves strategies and technologies aimed at decreasing emissions of pollutants, such as greenhouse gases, to mitigate their adverse effects on the environment and human health.

A mechanical device that increases the pressure of air by reducing its volume. It intakes ambient air and compresses it to a higher pressure, making it useful for various applications, including powering pneumatic tools, operating control systems, and in the context of the oil and gas industry, driving pneumatic controllers and instruments.

Large geological formations where significant amounts of oil and gas are found and extracted. These basins typically span vast areas and contain multiple oil fields. In North America, notable oil and gas basins include Permian, Bakken, Eagle Ford Shale, Andarko, Marcellus, Appalachian, and more. These basins are crucial to the oil industry, contributing significantly to North America's oil production.

The process of trapping carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from sources like power plants, industrial processes, or directly from the atmosphere. Once captured, the CO₂ can be stored underground in geological formations (Carbon Capture and Storage - CCS) or utilized in various industrial applications (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage - CCUS), thereby preventing it from entering the atmosphere and contributing to climate change.

A tradable certificate or permit representing the right to emit one metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO₂) or an equivalent amount of another greenhouse gas (GHG). Companies can purchase carbon credits to offset their emissions, thereby promoting investments in projects that reduce, remove, or avoid GHG emissions elsewhere.

Measures the amount of carbon (in CO₂ or CO₂ equivalent emissions) released per unit of another variable, typically energy or economic output. In the energy sector, it often refers to the amount of CO₂ emitted per unit of energy produced or consumed, serving as an indicator of how clean or efficient an energy source is.

A trading system in which countries, companies, or other entities can buy or sell units of greenhouse gas emissions. These markets aim to reduce global emissions by setting caps and allowing the trading of emission permits or credits. Examples include the European Union Emission Trading System (EU ETS) and voluntary carbon markets.

Measurable, verifiable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions used to compensate for emissions occurring elsewhere. They are often achieved through projects like reforestation, renewable energy installations, or methane capture from landfills. Companies or individuals can purchase carbon offsets to balance out their own carbon footprints.

The formal process of verifying that a product, service, process, or organization meets specific predefined standards or criteria. This can pertain to sustainable practices, emissions reductions, quality management, or adherence to environmental regulations. Certifications are often granted by recognized third-party organizations.

A global manufacturer specializing in highly engineered equipment for the industrial gas, energy, and biomedical industries. Their product portfolio includes cryogenic storage tanks, heat exchangers, and liquefaction equipment, catering to applications like liquefied natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, and other gas processing solutions.

A chemical process in which a substance reacts rapidly with oxygen, releasing heat and light. In industrial settings, combustion is used to generate energy by burning fuels such as coal, oil, or natural gas. While it produces energy, combustion also emits pollutants, including greenhouse gases like CO₂ and nitrogen oxides.

The incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons, resulting in the release of unburned methane and other hydrocarbons into the atmosphere. This can occur in engines, turbines, or other combustion processes, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the efficiency of fuel use.

Involves systematic observation, measurement, and analysis of specific parameters—such as emissions, environmental impacts, or operational performance—over time. These programs are designed to ensure compliance with regulations, identify issues promptly, and inform decision-making processes to improve environmental and operational outcomes.

The process of reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gas emissions across various sectors, primarily by decreasing the use of fossil fuels and transitioning to low-carbon or renewable energy sources. The goal is to mitigate climate change by lowering the carbon intensity of economic activities.

The process of identifying the presence, location, or quantity of a particular substance or phenomenon. In environmental and industrial contexts, detection methods are crucial for locating and measuring pollutants like methane leaks, ensuring safety, compliance, and environmental protection.

The activities involved in refining crude oil, processing and purifying raw natural gas, and the marketing and distribution of products derived from crude oil and natural gas. This includes operations like refineries, petrochemical plants, and retail outlets.

Greenhouse gas emissions that occur during the post-production phase of a product's lifecycle. For fossil fuels, this includes emissions from the transportation, distribution, and end-use combustion by consumers, such as burning gasoline in vehicles or natural gas in homes.

Environment and Climate Change Canada: The federal department of the Canadian government responsible for coordinating environmental policies and programs. Its mandate includes preserving and enhancing the natural environment, conserving renewable resources, and addressing climate change through policy development and enforcement.

The decrease in greenhouse gas emissions achieved through various measures, such as implementing cleaner technologies, enhancing energy efficiency, adopting renewable energy sources, or changing consumption behaviors. These reductions are vital for mitigating climate change and achieving environmental targets.

Observed and measured information regarding the reduction of emissions or pollutants. This data is gathered through experiments, monitoring, or real-world implementation of abatement strategies and is critical for evaluating the effectiveness of environmental policies and technologies.

A federal agency of the United States tasked with protecting human health and the environment. Established in 1970, the EPA creates and enforces regulations based on laws passed by Congress, addressing issues like air and water quality, chemical safety, and pollution prevention.

The three central factors in measuring the sustainability and ethical impact of an investment in a company or business. Environmental criteria assess how a company performs as a steward of nature, social criteria examine how it manages relationships with stakeholders, and governance deals with leadership, executive pay, audits, internal controls, and shareholder rights.

The controlled burning of natural gas that cannot be processed or sold, often associated with oil extraction where gas is a byproduct. While flaring converts methane (a potent greenhouse gas) into carbon dioxide (which has a lower global warming potential), it still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and energy waste.

Unintentional releases of gases or vapors from pressurized equipment due to leaks, faulty seals, or other failures. In the oil and gas industry, these emissions often include methane and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and can occur from pipelines, valves, storage tanks, and other infrastructure.

Identification and quantification of unintended methane leaks from equipment and infrastructure in industries like oil and gas. Techniques include optical gas imaging, laser-based sensors, infrared cameras, and various remote sensing technologies, all aimed at locating and addressing methane emissions.

A widely recognized international accounting framework for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions. The "GHG Protocol Methane" refers to guidelines within this framework specifically addressing the accounting, reporting, and management of methane emissions, providing standardized methods for organizations to quantify and report their methane footprint.

Atmospheric gases that trap heat from the sun, preventing it from escaping back into space, thereby contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming. Major GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and fluorinated gases.

Compressed air used to operate pneumatic instruments and control devices, serving as an environmentally friendly alternative to instrument gas. By using air instead of natural gas, industries can significantly reduce methane emissions associated with pneumatic equipment.

Pressurized natural gas used to operate pneumatic instruments and control devices in industrial settings, particularly within the oil and gas industry. While effective, the use of natural gas can lead to methane emissions if vented or leaked during operations.

An American company specializing in the design and manufacturing of control equipment for the oil and gas industry. Their product lineup includes valves, controls, regulators, and other related products that aid in the efficient and safe operation of oil and gas facilities.

Stands for Leak Detection and Repair. It is a program or set of procedures implemented in industrial facilities to identify, quantify, and repair leaks of gases and vapors, especially volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and methane, to minimize emissions and comply with environmental regulations.

Natural gas that has been cooled to a liquid state at about -162°C (-260°F) for ease and safety of non-pressurized storage or transport. Liquefaction reduces the gas volume by about 600 times, making it economical to transport over long distances where pipelines are not feasible.

Nitrogen in a liquid state at an extremely low temperature (approximately -196°C or -320°F). It is commonly used in various industrial applications, including cooling, freezing, and as an inert atmosphere for processes sensitive to oxidation or combustion.

Controllers or instruments designed to release a minimal amount of gas (such as methane) during normal operations. These devices help reduce fugitive emissions compared to standard or high-bleed equipment, contributing to environmental compliance and efficiency.

MMRV stands for Measurement, Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification. It's a comprehensive framework used to accurately account for greenhouse gas emissions and reductions, ensuring transparency, consistency, and credibility in environmental reporting and compliance.

A colorless, odorless flammable gas and the simplest hydrocarbon. It is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential approximately 28-36 times that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. Methane is emitted during the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as from livestock and other agricultural practices.

Quantitative information about the amount of methane released into the atmosphere from various sources, such as agriculture, landfills, and oil and gas operations. Accurate data is essential for understanding emission sources, assessing trends, and implementing effective mitigation strategies.

A financial charge imposed on the emission of methane, aimed at incentivizing reductions in methane emissions. By assigning a cost to methane emissions, policymakers encourage industries to adopt cleaner technologies and practices to minimize their methane footprint.

An incident where a significant amount of methane is emitted into the atmosphere, either intentionally (e.g., venting during maintenance) or unintentionally (e.g., equipment failure or leaks). Such events can have substantial environmental impacts due to methane's high global warming potential.

The unintended release of methane during the combustion process, particularly in natural gas engines or turbines. This occurs when methane passes through the system unburned, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions despite cleaner fuels.

An independent, not-for-profit organization that provides a methane emissions standard and certification program for the oil and gas industry. The MiQ Standard aims to facilitate transparency, provide credible data, and drive reductions in methane emissions by certifying natural gas based on its methane intensity.

The transportation (via pipelines, trucking, or shipping), storage, and wholesale marketing of crude or refined petroleum products and natural gas. Midstream operations act as the bridge between upstream (exploration and production) and downstream (refining and distribution) activities.

Greenhouse gas emissions associated with the transportation, storage, and distribution of oil and gas products. This includes emissions from pipelines, compressor stations, storage facilities, and any processing that occurs between extraction and refining.

Actions or strategies designed to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases, thereby lessening the severity of climate change. This includes adopting renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, implementing carbon capture technologies, and altering consumption patterns.

Net zero refers to achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. This is accomplished by reducing emissions as much as possible and implementing measures to remove or offset remaining emissions, such as reforestation or carbon capture technologies.

A colorless, odorless gas that makes up approximately 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. In industrial contexts, nitrogen is used for inerting, purging, and as a protective atmosphere in processes sensitive to oxidation or combustion. Liquid nitrogen is also used for cooling and freezing applications.

Pneumatic devices or controllers engineered to eliminate the release of gas (such as methane) during normal operations. By not venting any gas, these devices significantly reduce fugitive emissions, contributing to environmental compliance and sustainability goals.

A section of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) specifically targeting emissions from the oil and natural gas industry. OOOOb pertains to standards for new, modified, and reconstructed sources of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and methane emissions, setting requirements for equipment and operational practices to minimize emissions.

A section of the EPA's NSPS focusing on existing sources in the oil and natural gas sector. It sets emission guidelines and standards for VOCs and methane, outlining best practices and technologies to control and reduce emissions from established operations.

The release of gases, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and sometimes methane, from storage tanks holding crude oil or other petroleum products. Venting can occur during filling, temperature fluctuations, or maintenance, and contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

A location where drilling and production of crude oil take place. It includes the well itself, associated equipment like pumps and storage tanks, and infrastructure necessary for extraction, initial processing, and transportation of the oil.

Equipment used to increase the pressure of gas, often natural gas, to facilitate its movement through pipelines, processing, or storage. Compressors are essential in both production and transportation phases of oil and gas operations, ensuring efficient and continuous flow.

A specialized vehicle designed for the delivery and transportation of liquefied gases, such as liquid nitrogen or liquefied natural gas (LNG). These trucks are equipped with cryogenic storage tanks and systems to maintain the low temperatures required to keep gases in a liquid state during transit.

A system that uses pneumatic signals to regulate a process variable. It typically consists of a sensor (to detect changes), a controller (to process the information), and an actuator (to implement adjustments), all operating using compressed gas. Such systems are valued for their simplicity and reliability, especially in hazardous environments.

Devices that use compressed gas (often natural gas or air) to regulate process variables such as temperature, pressure, and flow in industrial systems. They operate by converting changes in process conditions into mechanical movements, adjusting valves or other control elements accordingly.

Any device that utilizes compressed gas to perform its function. Commonly used for measurement, control, or actuation in industrial processes, these instruments include gauges, controllers, and actuators, providing reliable and often explosion-proof operation.

A device that uses compressed air or gas to move fluids. In the oil and gas industry, pneumatic pumps can be used to inject chemicals, transfer liquids, or circulate fluids within systems. While effective, traditional pneumatic pumps powered by natural gas can contribute to methane emissions.

A branch of engineering that utilizes compressed air or gas to transmit and control energy. Pneumatic systems power various tools, instruments, and devices, especially in industrial settings like manufacturing, automation, and the oil and gas industry.

The process of decreasing the number of pollutants or greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere. This can be achieved through technological innovations, policy measures, behavioral changes, and efficiency improvements.

The state's specific air quality control regulations targeting ozone precursors and hydrocarbon emissions in the oil and gas industry. It includes requirements for emission controls, monitoring, reporting, and operational practices to minimize environmental impacts.

Rules or directives established and enforced by authorities to control or govern conduct. In environmental contexts, regulations set standards and requirements for emissions, safety, and operational practices, ensuring protection of the environment and public health.

These are categories defined by the GHG Protocol to classify emissions:

• Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned or controlled sources (e.g., combustion in owned boilers, vehicles).
• Scope 2: Indirect emissions from the generation of purchased energy (e.g., electricity, heat).
• Scope 3: All other indirect emissions occurring in a company’s value chain (e.g., business travel, waste disposal, production of purchased materials).

Understanding these scopes helps organizations comprehensively assess their carbon footprint.

A section of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP) that outlines the requirements for reporting greenhouse gas emissions from petroleum and natural gas systems. It specifies methodologies, data collection procedures, and reporting standards to ensure accurate and consistent emission data from the industry.

A source, such as an oil and gas facility or piece of equipment, that emits significantly higher levels of pollutants, particularly methane, compared to typical sources. Addressing super emitters is crucial as they contribute disproportionately to total emissions, making them prime targets for mitigation efforts.

A regulatory framework established by the government of Alberta, Canada, aimed at reducing industrial greenhouse gas emissions. It sets emission benchmarks for facilities, incentivizes technological innovations, and allows for emissions trading to encourage cost-effective reductions.

The automated process of collecting measurements or data from remote or inaccessible points and transmitting them to receiving equipment for monitoring and analysis. In industrial contexts, telemetry systems enable real-time monitoring of equipment performance, environmental conditions, and operational parameters, enhancing efficiency and safety.

Activities related to the exploration, drilling, and production of crude oil and natural gas. This encompasses locating potential underground or underwater oil and gas fields, drilling exploratory wells, and operating production wells to bring hydrocarbons to the surface.

Greenhouse gas emissions associated with the extraction and initial processing of fossil fuels. This includes emissions from drilling operations, venting, flaring, equipment leaks, and energy consumption during the production phase.

The use of actuators and control systems to operate valves remotely or automatically. This enhances operational efficiency, safety, and responsiveness in industrial processes, allowing for precise control of fluid flow and reducing the need for manual intervention.

The intentional release of gases, such as natural gas (methane), into the atmosphere during oil and gas operations. This can occur during maintenance, equipment malfunctions, or as part of standard operating procedures. Venting contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and is subject to regulatory controls and reduction initiatives.

Programs or commitments undertaken by companies or organizations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions beyond regulatory requirements. Examples include participating in carbon offset projects, setting internal emission reduction targets, or adhering to higher environmental standards and certifications.

A type of financial penalty or fee imposed on companies or facilities that release waste emissions into the environment. These charges are typically designed to incentivize businesses to reduce their emissions by making it more costly to pollute. The charges can apply to various types of emissions, including greenhouse gases, industrial waste, and other pollutants. The goal of WEC is to encourage more sustainable practices and reduce the environmental impact of industrial activities.

Operational practices or technologies that eliminate the intentional release (venting) of gases, such as methane, into the atmosphere during industrial processes. Achieving zero venting is a key objective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and complying with stringent environmental regulations.