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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

This study aims to provide a comprehensive geospatial gas flaring intensity and emission doses analysis throughout oil production areas in Iraq based on remote sensing and GIS-based interpolation methods. Satellite image and spatial data were combined to create a map of flaring locations, refinery locations, and associated CO2-equivalent emissions. The results show that there is a clear spatial variation in the intensity of the emissions ranging from northern regions towards the oil fields in the south near Basra, Rumaila and West Qurna, where refinery density and high flaring activities are observed. Interpolation modelling suggests that the majority of Iraq's GHG emissions are concentrated in these areas, and in some localised areas, emissions are significantly higher than very high limits. The study shows the potential of reducing emissions by flaring reduction and gas recovery projects and how GIS can be used to quantify environmental impacts resulting from hydrocarbon operations. The results offer scientific evidence for making energy policy and utilizing energy resources sustainably, which will help Iraq reduce routine gas flaring to zero by 2030.

Keywords

Natural gas, Oil production, Remote sensing, GIS techniques geomatics, Gas flaring

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