Abstract
Water is essential in the upstream and downstream operations of oil and gas companies. Yet water, particularly fresh water, is a scarce resource in many parts of world now and availability is predicted to become more constrained in the future. Understanding where areas of water risk and impacts are and responding with effective water management strategies is integral to responsible and efficient operations in the oil and gas sector.
IPIECA, the global oil and gas industry association for environmental and social issues, has recently made significant strides to raise members, stakeholders and the industry's awareness of water management issues for the oil and gas sector. This paper showcases the suite of free and publically accessable IPIECA tools and guidance available to help the sector more effectively understand and manage their areas of water risks and impacts:
The IPIECA Global Water Tool for Oil and Gas, launched in 2011, has been customised in collaboration with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). The tool helps companies map their water use and assess risks for their overall global portfolio of sites considering each part of the oil and gas value chain.
The Global Environmental Management Initiative (GEMI) Local Water Tool for Oil and Gas, launched in March 2012, provides a local-level understanding of water risk and development of management plans. IPIECA collaborated with GEMI to ensure compatibility between the global and local water tools.
An IPIECA document, Petroleum Refining Water / Wastewater Use and Management, launched in 2010 provides downstream good practice and strategies used in petroleum refineries to manage water including ways to reduce water usage.
Use of these tools and guidance by companies enables implementation of good management practices and can enhance environmental and operational performance.
