MUSCAT: "Oman has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to developing the oil and gas industry in a safe and sustainable manner, prioritising environmental protection as an integral component of our operations," said Dr Saleh al Anboori, the Director General of Exploration and Production of Oil and Gas at the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, highlighting the nation's proactive approach to balancing industrial growth with environmental responsibility.
In a recent interview with 'Wealth' newsletter of the Ministry, Dr Al Anboori shed light on Oman's unwavering commitment to environmental protection and sustainability in the oil and gas industry.
Since its inception in the oil and gas sector, Oman has prioritised environmental protection and sustainability, making them integral components of its operations. Dr Al Anboori highlighted the comprehensive environmental legislations and sustainable initiatives implemented by Oman to preserve the environment while developing the oil and gas industry in a safe and sustainable manner.
One of the remarkable achievements of Oman is its commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, in alignment with global goals to combat climate change. Oman has entered into strategic agreements specialising in clean energy and has been actively implementing new projects and modern technologies to reduce environmental impacts.
Dr Al Anboori expressed, "Our ambitious goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 is not simply a promise but a testament to Oman's dedication to global goals for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Through strategic agreements and technological advancements, we are actively working towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future."
He emphasized the goals set for the net zero strategy in the oil and gas industry, including a target to reduce carbon emissions by 7% by 2030 compared to the 2021 baseline. The Ministry of Energy and Minerals is working tirelessly to achieve these goals, promote investment in clean energy projects, and encourage the adoption of modern technologies for sustainable energy production.
Highlighting Oman's participation in international initiatives, Dr Al Anboori mentioned the signing of agreements such as the World Bank's “Zero Routine Flaring by 2030” initiative and the Global Methane Pledge to reduce methane emissions by at least 30% by 2030. Oman's collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme demonstrates its commitment to these initiatives.
In addition to international efforts, Oman is implementing domestic measures in cooperation with companies in the oil and gas industry. Clean energy projects, energy efficiency improvement initiatives, electrification of oil fields projects, and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) projects are among the key initiatives being pursued to reduce environmental impacts.
He also highlighted the Blue Hydrogen Project Feasibility Study in Duqm in cooperation with Shell and the afforestation of oil fields as innovative projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability in the industry.
Dr Al Anboori underscores Oman's pivotal role in the oil and gas industry and its dedication to achieving national sustainability goals. The close collaboration between the Ministry of Energy and Minerals and oil and gas operators is a testament to Oman's ambitious vision of achieving net zero emissions and becoming a beacon of sustainable development and environmental responsibility.
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