BISMARCK, N.D. — The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has announced a substantial reduction in natural gas flaring over the past decade, reflecting the state’s efforts to combine economic growth with environmental sustainability.

According to a recent report, natural gas flaring in North Dakota has decreased from approximately 31% in 2011 to just 5% in 2023. Flaring, the practice of burning excess natural gas into the atmosphere, has long been a concern for both environmentalists and the public due to its contribution to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

The DEQ attributes this reduction to improvements in horizontal drilling techniques and a significant increase in pipeline capacity. These advancements have allowed operators to capture and transport more natural gas, reducing the need for flaring. In addition to these technological strides, oil and gas producers have increasingly adopted practices that prohibit venting, which also helps to improve the state’s air quality.

The department views these developments as an important step forward in making oil and gas production more sustainable. By reducing flaring and venting, North Dakota is not only mitigating its environmental impact but also improving public health outcomes for residents.

“This report is a celebration of how our state’s oil and gas industry can continue to grow while becoming more sustainable,” said a spokesperson from the DEQ. The department emphasized that the changes are a testament to the collaboration between industry stakeholders and regulators working together to reduce environmental harm without sacrificing economic progress.

As North Dakota continues to be a major player in the nation’s oil production, this progress serves as a model for other states grappling with the challenge of balancing energy development and environmental responsibility.