Environmental Stewardship
AFPM members are investing billions in advanced technologies and renewable fuel production to lower carbon emissions, conserve water and protect land. These innovations are transforming how fuels and materials are made, making processes cleaner and more resource conscious. Guided by experts in environmental science, public health and engineering, companies are embedding environmental performance into everyday decisions—taking measurable steps to reduce emissions, minimize waste and support the communities where they operate.
“How do we sustain the world? Do it in the most efficient way and be good stewards of the resources we’ve been given.”
— Matt Smorch President and CEO CountryMark
Air Quality Progress
Over the past five decades, the United States has achieved remarkable improvements in air quality while sustaining robust economic growth. Between 1970 and 2023, the combined emissions of the six common pollutants (PM2.5 and PM10, SO2, NOx, VOCs, CO and Pb) dropped by 78 percent. This progress occurred while U.S. economic indicators remain strong. During this period, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew 321 percent, and the U.S. population increased by 63 percent, which subsequently increased energy consumption (42 percent) and vehicle miles traveled (194 percent).
Driving Innovation for Tomorrow’s Energy
AFPM members are using innovative technologies to improve environmental performance. From carbon capture and solar power to renewable fuels and hydrogen solutions, companies are investing in projects that reduce greenhouse gases, repurpose waste and improve energy efficiency across their operations.
Energy Efficiency
Across the country, companies are improving energy use and reducing emissions through smarter technologies and better processes. By upgrading equipment, optimizing operations and adopting low-power sources, these efforts are helping to lower environmental impact while supportingsafe, reliable performance.
Water Management
Refiners and petrochemical facilities are discovering new ways to reduce freshwater use and recycle the water that is used to produce fuels and petrochemicals. By recycling wastewater, our member companies can repurpose it for various uses, reinforcing their commitment to responsible resource management.
Waste Reclamation and Recycling
AFPM members are advancing waste reduction by recovering valuable materials and improving recycling across refining operations. Through smarter resource use and partnerships with local recyclers, companies are diverting more waste from landfills and reducing the need for new raw materials. These efforts support cleaner operations and contribute to a more sustainable future for the industry.
Conservation and Habitat Restoration
Refineries and petrochemical companies are taking steps to protect and improve the land and waterways near their operations. Through thoughtful planning and ongoing care, they support healthy ecosystems and work to balance energy production with environmental responsibility.
Pipeline Companies Champion Conservation
U.S. pipeline companies are committed to environmental care, blending energy transport with land restoration.
Matt Isom, Plains All American’s Vice President of Engineering, exemplifies this in West Texas, where pipelines aid his efforts to restore native grasslands. “At Plains, we maintain pipelines to protect the environment and communities,” Isom says. ONEOK restored nearly 400 acres of habitat in 2023, using careful soil preservation and native seed mixes. Marathon Petroleum’s MPLX partners with Texan by Nature on projects like dark-sky lighting, or outdoor lighting designed to minimize light pollution, and playa restoration to boost conservation.