Environmental sustainability challenges in the operation of in-land hydrocarbon pipelines: the case of Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The main focus of this paper is on the environmental sustainability challenges of inland hydrocarbon pipelines on the example of Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Hydrocarbon pipelines have been known for causing significant environmental damage, in addition to requiring vast amounts of natural resources such as water, land, steel, etc. Therefore, environmentally sustainable operation of pipelines is a concern that requires further research. The paper describes environmental challenges of pipeline operations and provides examples of approaches and technologies that can be successfully utilized to make pipelines more environmentally sustainable. It is concluded that the operation of in-land hydrocarbon pipelines can be made environmentally sustainable. This can be achieved by adopting a systematic framework, focusing limited resources on significant environmental aspects and technologies, integrating circular economy into day-to-day activities, and having strong management support.