Production Emissions Fall for Sixth Consecutive Year

Emissions from North Sea oil and gas production in the United Kingdom have declined for six consecutive years, falling by an estimated 37% since 2018.

“It is welcome to see continued impressive reductions in production emissions, reflecting industry work and commitment,” says Hedvig Ljungerud, Director of Strategy at the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA).

Production emissions fell by an estimated 7% in 2025 alone, with improvements at operational installations accounting for more than half of the reduction. Between 2018 and 2025, methane emissions and gas flaring volumes both decreased by approximately 60%, supported by stricter regulation and cleaner technologies. The industry has already exceeded its interim emissions reduction targets of 10% by 2025 and 25% by 2027, putting it on track to achieve a 50% reduction by 2030. Continued investment in low-carbon technologies and more efficient operations will help sustain progress towards the UK’s longer-term climate goals.