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Emission reduction
Southwestern Energy Wins National Award for Environmental Practices
As a result of specific emission reduction efforts as well as our overall environmental stewardship, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized Southwestern Energy as its 2007 Natural Gas STAR Rookie of the Year. The award recognizes new Natural Gas STAR partners that have demonstrated a strong commitment to the program including the implementation of technology and practices, support of program activities, initiatives and outreach as well as the reduction of methane emissions. "We embrace the Natural Gas STAR Program and the ideas it provides our company in being a better steward of the environment," said Mike McAllister, Director, HS&E. "Through our partnership we have the opportunity to learn new opportunities to improve our performance by applying efficiency enhancements identified by the EPA and other Gas STAR partners. We are committed to taking a proactive approach to protecting the environment and look forward to continued participation in the EPA Natural Gas STAR Program." The Natural Gas STAR Program is a voluntary partnership that encourages companies across the natural gas and oil industries to work with the government and one another to reduce emissions of methane by adopting cost-effective technologies and practices.
Well site selection and drilling
Three-dimensional seismic technology helps us know where to drill for natural gas by using sound waves to create three-dimensional maps of the rock formations lying thousands of feet below the earth's surface. Seismic data is invaluable when exploring the subsurface as it paints a realistic picture of the complexity and depth of the geology below. The development of seismic imaging in three dimensions enables exploration teams to more easily identify natural gas prospects, place wells more effectively, reduce the number of dry holes drilled, reduce drilling costs, and cut exploration time. In addition to seismic data, we evaluate the geographical and topographical aspects of each site to determine the best place to locate a well. Many pads are designed for multiple wells to help reduce the number of pads needed.Where practical, we minimize our emission profile during well completion activities by employing "green completion" technology. This technology allows us to capture gaseous emissions, including methane, which would otherwise be vented into the atmosphere.
Water conservation
Innovative thinking
Water conservation is imperative for our environment to thrive, and that's why we continually explore ecologically friendly operation processes that not only benefit our business but also local communities, landowners and wildlife. One creative solution we are implementing in Arkansas is to actively build ponds for water storage. Southwestern Energy has constructed more than 100 ponds that have the potential to capture 50 million barrels of water. As a result, less than 5 percent of the water for our drilling operations now comes from state waterways.
Roadway safety
Street Smart
Roadway safety is a top priority for Southwestern Energy Company’s Supply Services team in central Arkansas. That’s why the team is taking its new program Street Smart to the “streets” to deliver a message that fosters cautious driving behavior for everyone operating equipment on roadways. 
 Learn more about the Street Smart program... |
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