Editorial Comment

The gas processing/LNG sector is investing in new technologies to mitigate carbon emissions from both operations and its supply chain. This road to decarbonization is prevalent throughout the oil, gas and energy industries.

In a way, natural gas is a step to decarbonize energy sectors around the world. Natural gas emits far less carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions vs. other fossil fuels like coal or other petroleum products. Natural gas emits approximately 117 lbs of CO₂ per MMBtu vs. approximately 200 lbs of CO₂ per MMBtu for coal and more than 160 lbs of CO₂ per MMBtu for distillate fuel oil.¹

Many nations and companies view natural gas as a bridge fuel to the use of renewable power, as well as the adoption of hydrogen to fuel various industry sectors. For example, many Asian nations are converting coal-fired power generation plants to use natural gas. The use of natural gas for power generation is a major step for these countries to adhere to ambitious net-zero emissions goals.

The adoption of cleaner routes to processing natural gas and LNG production is a major focus of this issue of Gas Processing & LNG. These practices and technologies are only some of the many ways the industry is adopting new methods to optimize operations and provide a pathway to sustainable production. GP

 

LITERATURE CITED

1. U.S. Energy Information Administration, “Natural gas explained: Natural gas and the environment,” online: https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/natural-gas/ natural-gas-and-the-environment.php