Victor Ekpenyong, the CEO of Kenyon International, is urging a stop to the practice of gas flaring, which is when excess natural gas that comes out during oil extraction is burned off. He made this statement at the Uganda International Oil and Gas Summit, an event where various global stakeholders gathered to discuss how Uganda plans to produce its first oil by 2025.
Ekpenyong emphasized that gas flaring is a significant environmental issue found in many places where oil is produced. He pointed out that it contributes not only to air pollution but also to climate change, which is a serious global problem. He insists that ending gas flaring should be a priority for the oil and gas industry—not just from an environmental standpoint but also for economic reasons.
He advocated for the use of cleaner methods and advanced technologies to reduce the harmful effects the industry has on the planet. By doing so, he believes that the oil and gas sector can take a leadership role in decreasing its carbon footprint and helping to fight against global warming.
During a panel discussion on environmental sustainability and responsible management of resources, Ekpenyong urged all involved in the oil and gas industry to think carefully about how their work impacts the environment and society in the long run. He called for urgent action to eliminate damaging practices like gas flaring, oil spills, and the destruction of natural habitats, stressing that the industry should operate in harmony with global sustainability practices.
He highlighted the industry’s responsibility to align its operations with global sustainability goals, such as those outlined by the United Nations. This means not only reducing the environmental damage caused by oil and gas activities but also ensuring that local communities are included in the development process.
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Ekpenyong said it’s crucial to conduct thorough assessments of potential environmental and social impacts before starting large projects, in order to identify any possible risks.
He also spoke about the importance of collaboration among governments, the oil industry, and local communities. He argued that working together is key to finding innovative solutions that can protect the environment while also improving the lives of local residents.
Kenyon International, under Ekpenyong’s leadership, is dedicated to being a role model in this respect. The company aims to integrate sustainability into everything it does and to create opportunities for local communities by ending gas flaring, supporting sustainable infrastructure, and emphasizing community involvement.
Ekpenyong highlighted education as a vital tool for empowering communities to take charge of their own sustainability initiatives. He believes that local people should be equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their natural resources wisely.
Additionally, he suggested that providing local employment in areas such as reforestation, clean energy, and environmental monitoring could foster economic growth while promoting sustainable development.
In summary, Kenyon International is a leading company in Africa’s oil and gas service sector, and Ekpenyong wants to make a positive impact by advocating for responsible and sustainable practices in the industry.
