BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 10
By Leman Zeynalova – Trend:
Global natural gas consumption is expected to decline by 2.8-6 percent in 2020 depending on the easing of lockdown measures, but set to recover in 2021, told Trend reports with reference to Gas Exporting Countries’ Forum (GECF).
“Natural gas is the fuel that brings solutions to governments to implement their policies of access to energy and eradication of poverty. Natural gas can help achieve food security as a key component in the manufacture of fertilizers, among others,” reads the GECF report.
The organization believes that access to natural gas will generate social development including access to health services and related items.
“Access to natural gas will drive access to education. Schools can be built and natural gas power plants can provide affordable electricity, heating and transportation to allow easier access to schools. The natural gas industry offers opportunities of jobs to all and can help women grow in this challenging sector, unlike coal industry which remains male dominated. Natural gas can provide the energy required for water purification and expanding global access to this basic necessity,” the report reads.
Natural gas can provide the energy required for water purification and expanding global access to this basic necessity, according to GECF.
“Natural gas is the key energy source for universal access to clean, affordable, reliable, accessible and flexible energy. Natural gas is a driving force for GDP growth through sustainable supplies, diversification and technological innovation. Natural gas is an integral part of sustainable industrialization. It is the engine to foster innovation and infrastructure development for the growth of new industries and technologies,” reads the report.
The gas industry is based on international standards, hiring and rewarding the best employees in spite of sex, race or ethnicity leading to inclusive social and economic growth, said GECF.
“Gas brings equality in life standards. It lightens/warms/cool houses, schools, commerce, hospitals etc. Natural gas can help to develop public transportation in urban areas and road freight industry, with a view to reduce emissions and improve air quality in urban areas. Increased efficiency of CCGT allows reduced energy consumption and energy savings. Smarter gas production through digital technologies, will enable savings in gas industry,” the report reads.
Natural gas has a central role to play in mitigating carbon emissions while simultaneously supporting progress of the environmental aspect of sustainable development, according to the report.
“Coexistence of gas industry & marine life thanks to business ethics, HSSE, R&D, effective mitigation strategies, IOGP –JIP. IMO-2020 contributes to Sulfur emissions reduction where natural gas plays a crucial role. Natural gas can contribute to efficient heating and cooling systems, lightening roads & houses, stimulating agriculture etc. Equitable access to a reliable and abundant source of energy, such as natural gas, could promote global peace and improve institutional strength,” the report says.
Energy coalitions have a vital role to play in the inclusive global partnership in achieving the UN SDGs, since energy, particularly natural gas, can contribute significantly to most development goals, said GECF.
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