The Application of Systems Thinking System Dynamics (ST/SD) Tool to Analyse Oil and Gas Operations Environmental Sustainability Issues in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

Abstract

This study focused on the application of the Systems Thinking System Dynamics (ST/SD) tool to analyse oil and gas environmental sustainability issues in the Niger Delta region (NDR) in Nigeria. Over the years, countries around the world have relied on oil and gas for energy security, economic growth, self-sufficiency and to gain geopolitical advantages. The exploration and production of oil and gas continue to be a priority in producer countries of the Global South with regulations being implemented to enhance the sustainability of the industry. In 2018, before the pandemic, global energy production was 14 421 Mtoe, an increase of 3.2% compared to 2017; mainly driven by coal, oil and gas. In total, fossil fuels accounted for up to 85% of global energy production the same year. Thus, despite the global sensitisation towards renewable energy, oil and gas continue to play a key role in shaping world economies. Globally, producing countries and oil and gas companies face the increasing demand to explain how they can contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the achievement of Paris Agreement goals. This has necessitated energy companies to carefully consider adapting their operations and business models to reduce the impacts on the environment. The study adopted Rentier State, Resource Curse and Stakeholder theories. This study adopted a qualitative approach, data was collected from secondary sources and analysed. To fully understand the issues in the NDR, the study employed the Systems Thinking System Dynamics (ST/SD) methodological tool to uncover the operational practices associated with oil and gas operations in the NDR. It is a holistic approach with elements of feedbacks and delays which enhance the understanding of a complex situation such as the NDR in Nigeria. Keywords: Environmental Sustainability, Oil and Gas Operations, Systems Thinking System Dynamics (ST/SD), Niger Delta Region (Nigeria). Proceedings Citation Format Rasaki T. James, Titus K. Olaniyi & Posi Olatubosun (2023): The Application of Systems Thinking System Dynamics (ST/SD) Tool to Analyse Oil and Gas Operations Environmental Sustainability Issues in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. Proceedings of the 37th iSTEAMS Multidisciplinary Cross-Border Conference. 30th October – 1st November, 2023. Academic City University College, Accra, Ghana. Pp 1-16. .dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/ACCRACROSSBORDER2023V2P1