Beautiful mass burning shale gas flare visible in space
July 06 09:25:06, 2025
Abstract According to Xinhua News Agency, some U.S. oil companies are burning off excess gas while transporting enough energy to thousands of homes, raising concerns over resource waste and environmental harm. The practice, known as flaring, has drawn attention from the British "Financial Times," which reported on the 27th that North Dakota saw a 50% increase in gas flaring in 2012. North Dakota, a major shale state, is at the center of a growing energy revolution, but its rapid development has also led to rising emissions.
The United States has become one of the top countries for gas flaring. According to the World Bank, the amount of gas burned in the U.S. has tripled over the past five years, placing it among the top five globally—behind Russia, Nigeria, Iran, and Iraq. The Financial Times highlighted that flares from the Bakken shale region in North Dakota and the Eagleford shale in Texas are clearly visible in nighttime satellite images.
Oil production in the Bakken region has doubled every 18 months, contributing 10% of the nation’s total output. However, infrastructure to manage associated gas has lagged behind, leading to increased flaring. This not only harms the environment but also affects local communities.
Burning excess gas is partly due to low natural gas prices in North America, making it more cost-effective for companies to flare rather than invest in pipelines or storage facilities. This practice has sparked concern among investors and environmental groups, who argue that it increases greenhouse gas emissions and negatively impacts air quality near residential areas.
In North Dakota, flaring has caused a 20% rise in greenhouse gas emissions from oil production, refining, and transportation compared to the national average. Last year, several large institutional investors with over $500 billion in assets sent letters to Exxon Mobil, Chevron, and the Norwegian National Oil Company, urging them to address the issue.
Andrew Logan, an advocate for sustainable energy, warns that excessive flaring could threaten the long-term viability of the oil industry. “Not only does it damage the environment, but it also wastes valuable resources and risks losing business licenses,†he said.
In response to growing pressure, Mersey Capital Services recently proposed a shareholder resolution asking Continental Resources, a major player in the Bakken region, to set targets for reducing flaring. While Continental Resources claims its flaring levels are below the industry average and that it is making progress, it has agreed to report on its efforts in 2013.
Meanwhile, the North Dakota State Legislature is considering legislation to encourage companies to cut emissions while offering tax incentives. The state is also promoting the use of natural gas to power drilling operations, signaling a shift toward more sustainable practices in the energy sector.
Outdoor LED lights have revolutionized the way we light up our homes and outdoor spaces. From the chic Outdoor Wall Sconce to the sturdy Porch Light Fixtures, LED lights offer not just style but also energy-efficiency and durability. Outdoor Landscape Lighting can be used to enhance the beauty of gardens, walkways, and other outdoor areas. Battery Powered Outdoor Lights, on the other hand, provide flexibility and convenience, enabling homeowners to light up areas without the need for electrical wiring. Overall, Outdoor LED Lights are a bright and positive addition to any home, providing safety, security, and beauty to outdoor spaces!