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ENVIRONMENT REPORT
2015
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Figure 14 shows that the largest sources of VOC emissions in 2014 were gas flaring and venting (less than
66 per cent) and loading (29 per cent). A small amount of VOCs was also released due to fuel consumption. The
decrease in VOCs seen in Figure 13 since 2000 is linked to declining production. The introduction of emissions
reduction measures during loading, such as VOC recovery units, may also have been influential. The majority of
CH
4
emissions are generated from venting and flaring.
Figure 14: Offshore Emissions Sources of Methane and Volatile Organic Compounds in 2014
Emissions Source
CH
4
VOC
Fuel Consumption
7%
3%
Fugitives
4%
3%
Gas Flaring
33%
<36%
Gas Venting
54%
30%
Oil Loading
>1%
29%
Figure 15 highlights that 1.2 million tonnes of gas were flared on the UKCS last year, a four per cent reduction on
2013. The decline in flaring activity may be related to the overall decline in production.
Figure 15: Comparison of Offshore Fuel Gas Used and Gas Flared
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Offshore Fuel Gas Used and Gas Flared (Million Tonnes)
Flare Gas
Fuel Gas
Source: EEMS June 2015