The House of Representatives has passed the Anti-Gas Flaring Bill, which prohibits gas flaring except under strict regulations. Sponsored by Hon. Babajimi Benson, the bill aims to combat environmental damage, promote gas usage for economic growth, and ensure compliance through stringent penalties. It seeks to mitigate the adverse health impacts of flaring and align Nigeria’s policies with international climate agreements.
The House of Representatives has successfully passed the Anti-Gas Flaring (Prohibition and Enforcement) Bill, aimed at regulating the flaring and venting of natural gas under narrowly defined circumstances. Sponsored by Honorable Babajimi Benson, this landmark legislation seeks not only to address environmental concerns but also to promote the utilization of natural gas as a catalyst for economic growth and energy production. During the plenary debate on Thursday, Benson articulated the bill’s comprehensive approach to enforcement and compliance, emphasizing the urgent need to address the adverse effects of gas flaring that have afflicted Nigeria for decades.
Benson highlighted that gas flaring poses significant environmental threats, including greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming and acid rain. Furthermore, the lawmaker noted that communities situated near flaring sites suffer dire public health consequences, with increased respiratory and cardiovascular diseases resulting from the pollutants released. The bill recognizes gas as a resource that should be harnessed for energy production and economic benefit, aligning with international climate commitments such as the Paris Agreement.
The proposed legislation includes provisions for strict prohibition of gas flaring, unless in emergency situations or when authorized by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). Operators are mandated to submit detailed Gas Utilization Plans that outline how they will manage and commercialize gas instead of flaring it. Offenders of the bill will face significant penalties, including fines and possible suspension of operations for repeat violations.
Significantly, the bill will ensure that communities impacted by gas flaring will receive compensation and benefit from environmental restoration efforts. Transparency is also emphasized, with requirements for operators to regularly report gas flaring incidents, which will be subject to public audit by the NUPRC, fostering trust among stakeholders.
Benson expressed optimism about the bill’s expected outcomes, suggesting that it will facilitate a reduction in carbon emissions and contribute to Nigeria’s climate change targets. Economically, the legislation is anticipated to unlock the potential of natural gas for electricity generation, industrialization, and job creation. Implementation will involve oversight from the NUPRC, with support from the Ministry of Environment and other agencies, focusing on the environmental impacts and necessary remediation.
Gas flaring has been a longstanding issue in Nigeria, causing environmental degradation and public health crises while resulting in significant economic losses. The practice releases harmful pollutants into the air, contributing to climate change and posing health risks to nearby residents. Given these challenges, the proposed Anti-Gas Flaring Bill represents a crucial step towards aligning Nigeria’s oil and gas industry with global environmental standards and improving the socioeconomic landscape.
The passage of the Anti-Gas Flaring Bill marks a significant advancement in Nigeria’s legislative efforts to mitigate the negative impacts of gas flaring on health, environment, and economy. By instituting strict regulations and enforcement mechanisms, the bill aims to curb gas waste, promote sustainable practices, and enhance the utilization of natural gas for economic development. Ultimately, this legislation heralds a commitment to environmental stewardship and a progressive move towards fulfilling international climate commitments.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
