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Most reports issued by international energy agencies and organizations indicate the
continuing growth of the world’s demand for fossil fuel, which claims more than 80% of
the total world demand for energy currently. The MENA region, led by OAPEC member
countries, will continue to enjoy their pioneering position in the world’s oil and gas trade.
This matter calls for injecting more investments to upgrade and develop the existing
petroleum installations in order to meet the future world demand for energy on the one
hand, and to save the environment from greenhouse emissions and pollution on the other
hand.
OAPEC member countries are taking all possible measures to reduce greenhouse
emissions, protect the environment, and reduce workplace accidents at energy installations
and facilities.Among these measures: encouraging scientific research on energy efficiency
technology, adopting advanced technology, stressing the need for boosting international
cooperation, and merging energy efficiency with environment protection.
In this regard, it is worth mentioning that OAPEC member countries have executed
various mega projects to reduce flared gas; like in: KSA, Kuwait, and Iraq. Some member
countries have made good results in CCS projects likeAlgeria and the UAE. The keenness
of petroleum industry officials in OAPEC member countries to adopt best international
health, safety and environmental standards, comes from the belief that observing such
standards is essential for a successful petroleum industry. OAPEC member countries also
seek to develop health, safety and environment systems, endorse binding legislations
and laws through preparing a tailor-made guide on health, safety, and environment
management system for every petroleum company and installation. The guide specifies
professional safety tasks, responsibilities, and conditions in relation to production rates
and regular maintenance programs. It also explains thoroughly environment observation
Editorial
Health, Safety, and Environment in the Arab
Petroleum Industry