Understanding the application of sustainable development goals in oil and gas business activities

The oil and gas industry is the centre of the global economy and many national economies, including in developed and developing countries. This is also important for sustainable development, because oil and gas are the main pillars of the global energy system and, as such, are drivers of economic and social development. By mapping the linkages between the oil and gas industry and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the aim of this study is to encourage oil and gas companies to further incorporate relevant SDGs into their businesses and operations, validate their current efforts and trigger ideas. Oil and gas business activities that are in line with the sustainable development agenda can lead to greater efficiency, cost savings and competitiveness, and increase social permits to operate. The method used is to analyze the achievement of SDGs by paying attention to past experience and expectations of potential oil and gas activities going forward in efforts to achieve operational, environmental and social sustainability. Results of this study are to increase understanding of the relationship between SDGs and oil and gas business activities. Conclusion of this study is to emphasize that the oil and gas industry has the potential to contribute to the 17 SDGs.