ENVIRONMENT REPORT 2013
page 20
6.6 Emissions Offshore of Nitrogen Oxides, Carbon Monoxide and Sulphur Dioxide
Emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), principally nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide, are produced almost entirely
from the combustion of fuels at high temperatures. In 2010, 55,837 tonnes of NOx were released. This
decreased to 49,398 tonnes in 2011 and 48,542 tonnes in 2012.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced from the partial oxidation of carbon-containing compounds, most
notably, in internal-combustion engines. In 2011, 25,099 tonnes were released and in 2012 this decreased to
21,558 tonnes.
Sulphur dioxide (SO
2
)
is produced offshore by the oxidation of naturally occurring sulphur when liquid or
gaseous fuels are burnt. In 2012, SO
2
emissions were 2,582 tonnes which is significantly lower than those
reported in 2000/1.
These reductions can be attributed to better energy efficiency and the subsequent reductions in fuel gas use.
Figure 9: Offshore Emissions of Nitrogen Oxides, Carbon Monoxide and Sulphur Dioxide
on the UKCS from 2000 to 2012
0
10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Tonnes
Source: EEMS August 2013
NOᵪ Emissions
CO Emissions
SO₂ Emissions
