The IPLOCA (International Pipeline & Offshore Contractors Association) meeting in Lisbon in 2024 emphasized the importance of sustainable practices within pipeline construction, with a strong focus on carbon reduction. Key discussions and presentations addressed how the pipeline industry can effectively reduce CO₂ emissions through adopting cleaner technologies, enhancing efficiency in operations, and exploring alternative energy sources like hydrogen and renewables.
One of the primary goals highlighted was the industry’s shift towards carbon-neutral infrastructure, especially as governments and companies set more stringent emission reduction targets. The IPLOCA has been advocating for CO₂ reduction not only as an environmental responsibility but also as a business imperative, as lower carbon footprints increasingly become a requirement for future projects. By emphasizing sustainable practices and new technologies, the association is helping guide its members in meeting these goals and ensuring compliance with global environmental standards.
Footprint reduction
An important highlight into coating application is the initiative of various producers to evaluate their carbon footprint and aim for further reduction of their footprints. Within this context it is interesting to note that Seal for Life industries (Part of Henkel).
Significant CO2 reductions can be made to shift the industry from a traditional combination of abrasive blasting and a liquid based coating system, to viscoelastic based coating system, that only requires a mechanical pre-treatment (with Bristle blaster or MBX).
According to the measurements of Seal for Life, a reduction of 96% can be made in the overall carbon emission reduction. This is measured over de lifetime of 25 years. It can be concluded that the combination of both viscoelastic coating systems and a mechanical treatment provides major benefits for the global warming issue we are dealing with.
Iploca, other topics
The convention’s broader objective was to encourage knowledge sharing, where industry leaders collaborated on emerging methods in carbon capture and energy-efficient construction practices. These discussions were integral in underscoring that, as pipelines remain essential for energy infrastructure, they must also be developed in harmony with global climate goals. The meeting also fostered a platform for industry stakeholders to align on innovative approaches that will minimize the environmental impact of pipeline projects in years to come.
For more detailed insights into the event and IPLOCA’s sustainability initiatives, you can visit their official site or convention summary pages.