Earth Day is a globally event celebrated on April 22nd to demonstrate support for environmental protection. Ahead of this significant day, we had the opportunity to have insightful conversations with four environmental professionals.
In this interview, they share insights into their responsibilities, the impact of their work on environmental sustainability, and the key environmental challenges currently faced by the energy industry. Now let’s look at their perspectives.
What are environmental professionals doing?
Sergio is a Safety Manager working in Mexico for an FLNG project. The project aims to process stranded gas and gas that might otherwise be flared, providing clear environmental benefits. He introduced his responsibilities as an HSE supervisor:
Sergio
Safety Manager, Mexico
We need to ensure all the executions of the activities according to the safety regulations and prevent incidents during the commissioning of this project and of course the care of the environment and the personnel health.”
With more than 14 years of experience in the HSE side of the O&G industry, another HSE advisor Elí emphasized that HSE is crucial for the success of the operation:
Elí
HSE Advisor, Mexico
A HSE Operations Advisor is a key position for the success of the operation. I make sure that the proper planning, coordination and implementation of the procedures are carried out during the operations. I also support the logistic and operations teams, maintaining a high level of HSE and legal compliance.”
As a certified Environmental Audit Expert trained in occupational health and safety, first aid, and lifting operations, Dorothy has undertaken crucial responsibilities:
Dorothy
Environmental Audit Expert, Kenya
In my role, I promote HSE best practices within our organization. This includes providing training to staff, contractors, and relevant parties to ensure everyone follows safety standards with the necessary knowledge and awareness. In addition, I perform thorough audits and inspections, carefully documenting my findings and providing actionable recommendations to address any identified gaps or hazards.”
Wilson is an experienced HSE supervisor in Kenya. He holds an environmental degree specializing in planning and management. He mentioned to us the required skills for HSE professionals:
Wilson
HSE Supervisor, Kenya
My role requires a combination of skills, including regulatory compliance, risk management, inspections and audits, training, and communication. This, to ensure a safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible workplace.”
How does your work contribute to the environmental sustainability?
The first aspect relates to waste management and environmental monitoring. Elí mentioned his daily work:
Elí
HSE Advisor, Mexico
I review all the legal compliance of all the contractors that handle the hazardous waste during the operations. Additionally, we make sure that all the waste are properly disposed of to an authorized final destination. Also we track and record the quantity of used diesel and discharges of waste water to the sea. Everything needs to be inside the limits of the company and authorities standards.”
Health, Safety and Environment specialists, like their name says, do not only specialize in environmental matters but also ensure the safety of their operations. Most times, they are certified with different specializations, such as, working at heights, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ISO, etc.
Sergio talked about the action taken in reducing waste on board:
Sergio
Safety Manager, Mexico
As environmental professionals, we promote environmental sustainability by raising personnel awareness. For example, by reducing paper usage in the office, and implementing initiatives to decrease PET glass consumption onboard.”
Another efforts contribute to sustainability is through the implementation of employee education. Both Wilson and Dorothy pointed out it:
Dorothy
Environmental Audit Expert, Kenya
As part of my responsibilities, I provide environmental awareness training to staff and contractors on-site. Also, I conduct training sessions on water efficiency and Environmental protection to educate employees about environmental conservation practices and the importance of sustainability.”
Wilson
HSE Supervisor, Kenya
I provide training courses to equip my colleagues with the skills needed to properly handle and segregate waste and raise their awareness of the importance of waste management and recycling.”-
From your perspective, what are the key environmental challenges that the energy industry is currently facing?
Our environmental professionals face unique challenges depending on the energy sector and location.
Energy environmental professionals develop sustainable energy, reduce emissions, and protect ecosystems to ensure a sustainable future.
Elí discussed two key environmental challenges in the oil and gas industry:
Elí
HSE Advisor, Mexico
Firstly, the use of fossil fuels is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Thats the main purpose to track and record the generation of SOx and NOx, create plans to be more efficient, implementing technologies and practices to reduce emissions and minimize environmental impacts.
The second challenge is the significant amount of seawater required for energy production. That’s why the company supports environmental regulations and standards by collaborating with the government and NGOs and complying with all regulations. This includes measures to minimize water use and pollution, protect biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of habitat destruction.”
Sergio mentioned the importance of effective policy in Mexico:
Sergio
Safety Manager, Mexico
In Mexico, we need an effective policy to reduce atmospheric emissions. Regarding flared gas, the project I am involved in could be a practical solution and create more opportunities for professionals in this changing industry.”
Wilson stated that relying heavily on biomass feedstocks poses significant challenges.
Wilson
HSE Supervisor, Kenya
It often means competing with food crops for land and water resources, which can result in deforestation, habitat loss, and water scarcity. As an HSE supervisor, it’s crucial for me to ensure that our plant’s operations are carried out sustainably.”
We thank the HSE Consultants for sharing their valuable insights on sustainability efforts. Today, we want to reaffirm our commitment to meaningful actions that contribute to a greener planet.
