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Marginal wells produce less than 15 barrels of oil per day and contribute little to the United States’ overall energy security or the economy. Many of these wells have been operating for decades and are now poorly maintained due to their declining productivity. Valves, seals, and other connection points are prone to leaks — sending toxins like benzene into the air, soil, and water of local communities, as well as sending plumes of methane into the atmosphere.
Natural gas is almost entirely composed of methane. Odorless and invisible, methane traps more than 80 times more heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide does in the near term and is also accompanied by toxic tagalongs that put human health at risk.
Solutions are readily available that can help oil and gas producers keep more of their product (gas) in the pipeline — preventing energy waste and creating business savings. RMI is working with a diverse spectrum of stakeholders including industry leaders, elected officials, and community groups to advance regionally tailored solutions to slash the methane emissions linked to marginal wells.
Independent research. Real-world solutions. Supported by donors.
RMI can pursue the highest-impact climate and energy solutions because we’re supported by people who believe change is possible. Every gift helps advance the work needed to make clean energy the default choice worldwide.
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