Natural gas is essential to any realistic path toward greenhouse gas reduction

Natural gas was at the top of the agenda this week when world and energy leaders gathered in Houston for CERAWeek, an annual gathering to advance solutions to the biggest challenges facing the future of energy and the environment. there was. This timely discussion comes against the backdrop of federal action in Congress. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy This may impact permitting, regulation, and reporting in the U.S. oil and natural gas industry.

Natural gas, an important part of the energy mix here in the United States and around the world, will continue to be needed for decades to come. However, when this gas is produced and delivered to homes and businesses, greenhouse gases are emitted. That’s why reducing operational emissions from America’s natural gas is a priority for all of us.

At the request of the U.S. Secretary of Energy, the National Petroleum Council, a federal advisory committee comprised of industry, tribal, academic, and environmental leaders, assembled a broad group of experts to find solutions to this very problem. convened.

Over the past two years, the Council’s team has conducted a comprehensive analysis of how we can work together to reduce operational emissions across the natural gas supply chain. In doing so, we help meet America’s key climate goals while keeping the lights on, homes heated, protecting our communities, and growing our economy.

The resulting report, expected to be submitted for final approval next month, will provide recommendations for a series of actions by industry, legislators, regulators and researchers to help reduce operational emissions. will be provided. Our extensive research analyzed greenhouse gas emission reduction plans and programs in natural gas production, transportation, distribution, and liquefied natural gas exports. We also evaluated modeling frameworks used for lifecycle emissions analysis, as well as ways to improve methane detection, measurement, and monitoring.

For the first time, social considerations and impact have been included as areas of focus. In particular, recommendations regarding meaningful community engagement build on the industry’s commitment to being a good neighbor by understanding local perspectives and seeking to address community concerns.

This report continues the progress we have already made and proposes a system of solutions for how our industry can improve and reduce operational GHG emissions more in harmony with local communities. provides tailored recommendations to industry, government, and researchers to reduce

Natural gas is already an American success story.The United States is reducing its carbon emissions from the power sector. 15% from 2005 to 2022 Natural gas has replaced coal as the main fuel type for power generation.

This same natural gas also reduced America’s dependence on foreign sources for energy. And today, the United States is the world’s largest producer and exporter of liquefied natural gas, providing energy security to our allies. Some studies have found that transporting these gases could reduce emissions from replacing coal.

Natural gas is already well-positioned to meet global demand while balancing economic needs and environmental stewardship. As consumption of conventional fuels continues to increase, there is a global opportunity to expand the role of U.S. natural gas, and it is indeed essential.

For future energy markets to be truly successful, they must balance economic, security, and environmental objectives. Society will not tolerate advancing one at the expense of the other. We look forward to sharing our research findings and are even more excited to continue these collaborations as we work with stakeholders to translate recommendations into action.

Together, we can put future generations on a path to responsible, green growth and prosperity. That effort starts now with us.

Ryan Lance is Chairman and CEO of ConocoPhillips and Vice Chairman of the National Petroleum Council.