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Home > Focus Areas
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Climate change
Global climate change has potentially significant consequences for society and the international petroleum
industry, both from possible future impacts and the socio-economic consequences of policies developed to
respond to climate change. Whilst research continues to better define our understanding of climate change and
the limits of that understanding, sustained efforts will be required to address concerns about climate change
and at the same time, to meet the growing energy needs of society.
Biodiversity
The interface between energy needs and biodiversity values leads to some complex challenges for society. Oil
and gas operations can have a range of direct and indirect impacts on biodiversity at all stages of a project
lifecycle. Recognising such challenges, companies are exploring ways to integrate biodiversity considerations into
their internal business practices and operations. From a business perspective, this can minimise risk and may also
enhance both company performance and the ability to access key business resources.
Social responsibility
Social responsibility is a key issue that needs to be addressed in a proactive and systematic manner, and
requires well researched long-term solutions. The oil and gas industry operates in some of the most challenging
places in the world. Companies face complex issues and must adapt to a variety of local conditions, regulations
and cultural differences. In dealing with these challenges, companies recognise the importance of developing
positive relationships with the communities in which they operate, as well as other stakeholders to help mitigate
risk and deliver net benefit.
Oil spill
Oil spills may have a significant impact on ecosystems, amenities and livelihoods. While the initial focus
must be on prevention, the industry also gives high priority to developing comprehensive and well-rehearsed
contingency plans that will ensure prompt response to minimise the impact of an oil spill. As a significant
number of countries are still not adequately prepared, working closely with national and local governments to
build response capacity at all levels is vitally important.
Operational, Fuels and Product issues Committee (OFPIC)
The environmental consequences of the fuel-vehicle system, from air quality in developing country mega-cities
to greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles in California, are of concern to a wide range of stakeholders. As
vehicle emission control technology advances, the oil industry is working to produce and supply cleaner, better
performing hydrocarbon fuels to enable these technologies.
Health
In addition to the traditional occupational health concerns, the industry operates in a diverse range of environments
which presents challenges for managing the health of people engaged in its activities, such as providing for
emergency evacuation and access to adequate care facilities for employees, in extreme climates. There is also the
challenge of minimising the health and social impacts on communities where the industry operates.
Reporting
Oil and gas companies face increasing pressure world-wide related to sustainable development and corporate governance.
Stakeholders are increasingly demanding clear and consistent disclosure from the industry on how its most significant
risks and issues are being managed. Voluntary reporting has emerged as one important tool in the way companies respond
to this demand.
Partnerships
Partnerships can make a significant contribution to sustainable development. Successful partnerships allow the strengths
and capabilities of participants to be combined for real results. The oil and gas industry is working in partnerships to
respond to challenges of meeting global energy demand and to contribute to sustainable development.
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