Conoco Inc. is making progress in its 1 year old program of environmental initiatives.
The nine point program involves goals that range from construction of double hulled tankers to recycling of all office waste (OGJ, Apr. 16, 1990, p. 89).
"We knew the implementation of these initiatives would be a complex task requiring time and commitment," said Constantine S. Nicandros, Conoco president and chief executive officer, Houston.
"If we underestimated anything, it was the high level of enthusiasm with which Conoco employees around the world have taken up the challenge. Progress has been significant, but our employees are not satisfied. If anything, our enthusiasm for achieving these objectives has increased."
Nicandros said public response to the initiatives has been extremely positive.
"The public is sending us an overwhelming signal of support, which is appreciated and inspiring," he said.
PROGRESS REPORT
Here is Conoco's progress report on its initiatives:
- Creation of citizen advisory councils-Councils have been established and regular meetings are being held in communities where four refineries are located-Lake Charles, La.; Billings, Mont.; Denver; and Ponca City, Okla. The first meeting of the Gulf Coast council in New Orleans was due in mid-April.
- Construction of double hulled tankers-Final engineering of the tanker design is under way, with construction to start in May. Delivery is scheduled for February and April 1992. Conoco also has ordered five double hulled barges for use in its inland marine fleet. Three are in service, with the others scheduled for delivery soon.
- Installation of double containment systems at new and refurbished gasoline retail outlets-Installation is complete at 41 stores, with plans to install another 60/year for the next few years.
- Development of new fuels-Conoco offers regular RXL gasoline and low sulfur diesel. Research is under way to develop cleaner fuels.
- Employee compensation for environmental efforts-All Conoco managers have committed to environmentally related goals in their 1991 objectives. A new appraisal form will include environmental considerations.
- Creation of fellowship programs-Three environmental fellows are being chosen for 1991-92, and they will start work at Conoco in September. Nominations for 1992-93 fellowships will be requested in June.
- Development with environmental sensitivity-Forums in Ecuador and the U.S. have been conducted to relate Conoco's development plans in Ecuador's rain forest. Meetings have been held with environmentalists in Africa and Asia to discuss environmental concerns. A rain forest seminar was conducted for Conoco's international staff. An environmental plan was presented to Soviet government officials for a western Siberia project.
- Recycling 100% of about 11,000 cu yd/year of waste generated at Conoco's Houston headquarters complex by 1993-Within the first 6 months, about 50% of office waste was being recycled in Houston. Similar programs are under way at many company offices, including London, Ponca City, and New Orleans. The company is promoting internal waste reduction and recycling programs, and recycled products are in general use.
- One-third reduction in toxic air emissions and hazardous solid wastes by 1993-Conoco is on track to meet or exceed this goal. The company reduced its emissions by more than 20% in 1989 and will show more reductions in 1990. A variety of projects have been undertaken to achieve this goal, including use of more energy saving equipment and upgrading of seals on a variety of tanks at refineries and retail gasoline stations.
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