Environment Report 2013

ENVIRONMENT REPORT 2013

6.6 Emissions Offshore of Nitrogen Oxides, Carbon Monoxide and Sulphur Dioxide Emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), principally nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide, are produced almost entirely from the combustion of fuels at high temperatures. In 2010, 55,837 tonnes of NOx were released. This decreased to 49,398 tonnes in 2011 and 48,542 tonnes in 2012. Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced from the partial oxidation of carbon-containing compounds, most notably, in internal-combustion engines. In 2011, 25,099 tonnes were released and in 2012 this decreased to 21,558 tonnes.

Sulphur dioxide (SO 2 )

is produced offshore by the oxidation of naturally occurring sulphur when liquid or

gaseous fuels are burnt. In 2012, SO 2

emissions were 2,582 tonnes which is significantly lower than those

reported in 2000/1.

These reductions can be attributed to better energy efficiency and the subsequent reductions in fuel gas use.

Figure 9: Offshore Emissions of Nitrogen Oxides, Carbon Monoxide and Sulphur Dioxide on the UKCS from 2000 to 2012

NOᵪ Emissions

CO Emissions

SO₂ Emissions

0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 70,000

Tonnes

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Source: EEMS August 2013

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