First Initiative in the Arabian Peninsula to Measure Methane Emissions from the Oil & Gas and Waste Sector by a Helicopter Probe

Abstract

Within the framework of the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0), initiated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), companies in the Oil and Gas (O&G) sector have committed to monitor and to reduce their methane (CH4) emissions. Presently, more than 120 companies have joined OGMP 2.0 covering operations in 70 countries around the world, one of which is Oman. Methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases after carbon dioxide and the focus of worldwide initiatives to combat global warming. This includes UNEP’s International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO), which focuses on improved data collection and delivery not only from O&G, but also from other emission sectors including waste. According to Oman’s latest Biennial Update Report, the solid waste sector is the second largest CH4 emitter behind the O&G sector and represents 15% of Oman’s CH4 emissions. However, until now, no sector-specific measurement-based studies on such emissions exist for Oman.