RMGA Environmental and Sustainability Practices 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary greenhouse gas concern associated with natural gas distribution systems?
- Carbon dioxide from combustion
- Methane emissions from pipeline leaks (fugitive emissions) (Correct answer)
- Nitrogen oxides from compressor stations
- Hydrogen sulfide from gas processing
Correct answer: Methane emissions from pipeline leaks (fugitive emissions)
Methane, the primary component of natural gas, is a potent greenhouse gas; fugitive emissions from leaks in distribution systems are a significant environmental concern.
Question 2: What is a 'Leak Detection and Repair' (LDAR) program?
- A billing audit program to detect meter fraud
- A systematic program to find and fix gas leaks in the distribution system to reduce fugitive methane emissions (Correct answer)
- A regulatory compliance check for pipeline safety violations
- An employee safety training program for working around gas leaks
Correct answer: A systematic program to find and fix gas leaks in the distribution system to reduce fugitive methane emissions
LDAR programs use periodic surveys and monitoring technology to identify and promptly repair gas leaks, reducing both safety hazards and methane emissions to the atmosphere.
Question 3: What does 'renewable natural gas' (RNG) refer to in the context of gas distribution?
- Natural gas extracted from new wells using advanced drilling techniques
- Biogas (methane) produced from organic waste sources that is upgraded to pipeline quality (Correct answer)
- Hydrogen gas produced by electrolysis of water
- Synthetic methane produced from captured CO2
Correct answer: Biogas (methane) produced from organic waste sources that is upgraded to pipeline quality
RNG is pipeline-quality methane derived from the decomposition of organic materials such as landfill gas, wastewater biogas, or agricultural waste, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Question 4: Which federal agency regulates air emissions from natural gas compressor stations and processing facilities?
- PHMSA (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration)
- EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) (Correct answer)
- FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission)
- OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
Correct answer: EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)
The EPA regulates air emissions including methane, VOCs, and NOx from natural gas facilities under the Clean Air Act.
Question 5: What is the purpose of 'reduced emissions completions' (green completions) at natural gas wells?
- To improve worker safety during well drilling
- To capture gas that would otherwise be vented or flared during well completion, reducing emissions (Correct answer)
- To reduce water consumption during hydraulic fracturing
- To increase natural gas production from existing wells
Correct answer: To capture gas that would otherwise be vented or flared during well completion, reducing emissions
Green completions capture gas and liquids that flow back during well completion rather than venting or flaring them, significantly reducing methane and VOC emissions.
Question 6: What is 'pipeline integrity management' and how does it relate to environmental protection?
- A financial management program for pipeline assets
- A systematic program to assess and maintain pipeline safety that also reduces leaks and associated emissions (Correct answer)
- An employee training program for pipeline operators
- A regulatory filing requirement for large pipeline companies
Correct answer: A systematic program to assess and maintain pipeline safety that also reduces leaks and associated emissions
Integrity management programs identify and address pipeline risks, reducing the likelihood of leaks and failures that could harm both people and the environment.
RMGA Environmental and Sustainability Practices 1
What is the primary greenhouse gas concern associated with natural gas distribution systems?