The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has unveiled new national guidelines aimed at strengthening the monitoring and control of fugitive methane emissions from Ghana’s oil and gas sector, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance its climate commitments.
Launched in Accra, the Guidelines for Inspection, Monitoring and Reporting of Fugitive Methane Emissions from Oil and Gas Operations in Ghana brought together policymakers, petroleum industry operators, civil society organisations and development partners to discuss measures for improving environmental compliance across the sector.
The EPA said the new guidelines provide a comprehensive framework outlining the inspection, monitoring and reporting measures that petroleum operators must implement to detect, prevent and manage methane leaks throughout their operations.
According to the Authority, the framework establishes a uniform regulatory approach for managing fugitive methane emissions across Ghana’s upstream and midstream petroleum industries, while strengthening oversight and promoting adherence to environmental standards.
The initiative forms part of Ghana’s broader climate action strategy to curb greenhouse gas emissions, improve environmental performance in the petroleum sector and fulfil the country’s international commitments on climate change mitigation.
The EPA emphasized that the success of the new guidelines will depend on sustained collaboration among government agencies, oil and gas companies, civil society organisations and development partners to ensure responsible petroleum development while protecting the environment.
The Authority expressed confidence that the implementation of the guidelines will enhance environmental governance, improve industry accountability and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable energy sector in Ghana.
By: Christian Kpesese/NR NEWS
