Evaluating the Lifecycle Environmental Impact of Multi-Phase Flow Metering Systems with Integrated Blockchain for Carbon Footprint Reduction

Abstract

This study addresses the growing need for environmentally sustainable practices within the oil and gas industry, particularly in regions where carbon emissions are significant. The research investigates the environmental impact and lifecycle assessment of blockchain-integrated multi-phase flow metering systems designed for offshore oil and gas operations, focusing on how these advanced technologies contribute to carbon footprint reduction. Using a case study of Resoluto Nigeria Limited, a Nigerian oil and gas service provider, this study explores the practical applications, benefits, and challenges of implementing blockchain with multi-phase flow metering in a real-world setting.The objectives of this research are twofold: firstly, to assess how blockchain technology, combined with multi-phase flow metering, enhances data accuracy, security, and transparency in flow measurement; and secondly, to quantify the carbon footprint reductions achieved through these improvements. Traditional metering methods often face issues related to data integrity and accuracy, which can lead to inefficiencies and elevated emissions due to misreported flow data. In contrast, blockchain technology provides a decentralized and tamper-proof method of recording and verifying flow data, reducing the likelihood of discrepancies and enabling more accurate assessments of carbon emissions.In our methodology, we conducted a lifecycle environmental impact assessment, considering each stage from system installation to routine operations. Through a mix of field measurements, operational logs, and blockchain data records, we applied a simplified carbon reduction model to quantify the environmental benefits. This model calculates emissions reductions by comparing baseline emissions without advanced metering against current emissions achieved with blockchain-integrated systems. Our mathematical framework for carbon reduction includes expressions accounting for the efficiency gained in data accuracy and system responsiveness.Findings from the case study of Resoluto Nigeria Limited indicate that blockchain-integrated multi-phase flow metering systems lead to substantial improvements in data integrity—estimated at 20%—thereby enabling enhanced accuracy in environmental reporting and operational decision-making. Moreover, carbon emissions associated with offshore pipeline operations were reduced by an estimated 15%, equating to approximately 500 tons of CO₂ saved annually. The adoption of this system also yielded notable cost savings, with a calculated return on investment achieved within the first two years of implementation. Furthermore, we observed enhanced operational efficiency and a reduction in maintenance costs, attributed to the system’s real-time data accuracy and predictive analytics capabilities. This study’s results suggest that blockchain-enabled flow metering technologies have the potential to play a crucial role in advancing sustainability goals within the oil and gas sector, particularly for regions like Nigeria, where environmental impact and regulatory compliance are increasingly prioritized. The integration of blockchain not only adds value through secure data management but also aligns with industry standards for transparency and accountability. This research contributes to the field by highlighting a promising avenue for technological advancement in carbon management and offers a foundation for future studies on similar applications of blockchain in other industrial sectors.