Our approach to the environment

We operate in a way that respects nature, and we work to protect ecosystems. Measuring our environmental impact and setting ourselves goals to improve helps us find better ways to operate – working with nature, rather than against it.

We continually strive to improve our environmental performance and aim to transparently communicate about our progress (see Our performance data).

We use external standards and guidelines, such as those developed by the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation, to manage our emissions, discharges, conserve biodiversity and minimise water use and the impact on water resources.

Within operations, we focus on reducing energy use, flaring less gas and preventing spills and leaks. Where necessary, Shell companies also clean up and remediate areas affected by spills that come from our operations.

We carry out detailed environmental, social and health impact assessments when planning major projects, such as exploration and drilling activities, offshore platform installation or decommissioning.

We are working to reduce waste and explore opportunities to integrate a circular economy approach in our operations and supply chains. The circular economy is based on the concept that products are designed to last longer and to be reused, repurposed or recycled.

Read about Shell’s new environmental framework launched in February 2021 at www.shell.com/sustainability/environment/environmental-management