Air emissions

ExxonMobil is committed to reducing the emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from our operations. We have implemented cost-effective new technologies and adopted new operating practices to reduce air emissions, driven in part by new regulatory requirements, but also in response to community priorities. As a result of these efforts, our combined emissions of VOCs, SO2, and NOx decreased by 25 percent from 2005 levels. By year end 2008, we achieved more than a 50-percent reduction of our combined NOx and SO2 emissions from our 2000 baseline levels at our U.S. refining facilities. We are on track to meet our commitment to achieve a 70-percent reduction compared to 2000 baseline levels by 2012.

We continued upgrading our U.S. refining facilities to reach the target of reducing our combined NOx and SO2 emissions by 70 percent from our 2000 baseline levels. All seven of our U.S. refineries have implemented some reduction measures and are continuing to make further upgrades. Upgrades and facility improvements for air emissions reduction include selective catalytic reduction to control NOx emissions, sulfur recovery processes, and additional flare gas recovery.

At several of our refineries and chemical plants, we use innovative optical imaging technology to efficiently inspect valves, connectors, pumps, and other piping system components for leaks. This infrared video camera system also helps the sites to detect emissions from storage tanks, heating and cooling equipment, and other sources, enabling rapid repairs. ExxonMobil engineers have conducted studies to expand the capabilities of this new technology and have shared the learnings with industry through numerous publications and presentations.