Managing our environmental performance
Our commitment to operating in an environmentally sustainable manner is anchored in our environmental policy. Our policy emphasizes individual responsibility; fosters appropriate operating practices and training; and requires our facilities to be designed, operated, and managed with the goal of preventing incidents, and controlling emissions and waste to below harmful levels. Not only is this our central commitment to environmental responsibility, but pursuing it year after year has helped ExxonMobil reduce operating costs, improve safety, and reduce impact to the environment.
Up Close: Designing to minimize impact
We look for opportunities to reduce our environmental footprint in the design phase of every new project.
Canada. At the Kearl Oil Sands Project in Alberta, a water storage system will be used to reduce water withdrawal from the Athabasca River during low-flow winter periods.
Italy. At the Adriatic Liquefied Natural Gas facility, project plans incorporated the creation and monitoring of an artificial reef to be installed in the spring of 2009. Based on input from regulators and local marine experts, the reef will be situated to enhance the environmental productivity of several natural outcrops.
The reef foundation will be built from a series of pyramid structures known as a "technoreef," which will be enhanced with artificial seaweed bundles to provide habitat for eggs and larvae. In consultation with local fishermen, additional structures with net-snagging devices will be located around the perimeter of the reef to prevent trawling activities. Italy has extensive experience with creating artificial reefs. Since 2005, 10 reefs have been successfully installed.
We maintain strong management processes in our Operations Integrity Management System (OIMS) and adhere to all applicable laws and regulations. Our environmental management processes are guided by our Protect Tomorrow. Today. initiative, which outlines our expectations for delivering superior environmental performance, driving environmental incidents with real impact to zero, and achieving industry-leading performance in priority areas of importance to each business.