…Future development of its oil expansion programme must be reviewed
Dear Editor
WWF notes with deep and growing concern that Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd (EEPGL) has restarted flaring of gas on its first Oil and Gas Platform in the Stabroek Block off the coast of Guyana. Notably, it is reported that the company did not inform the Government of Guyana prior to this development. Recommencement of flaring defies ExxonMobil’s global commitment to reduce flaring from 2016 levels by 20% in 2020. It certainly does not support the company’s global statements about reducing its greenhouse gas footprint.
“The burden of responsibility falls squarely on ExxonMobil. We look forward to the Company being held accountable for this development,” said David Singh, Director of WWF-Guianas.
EEPGL is undercutting Guyana’s “green image” making it more difficult for the country to promote and build a sustainable, low-carbon economy. The lack of, and limited disclosure of information also gives no confidence that the company will take seriously its good corporate citizen responsibility in a country known for its climate mitigation efforts. Future development of its oil expansion programme must be reviewed against this recent development and the way it was disclosed.
Regards
Kemptorne Daly Commucations Officer
World Wildlife Fund
