Qatar HSE forum discusses sustainable development
DOHA, September 23, 2014
More than 600 professionals from 121 companies are taking part in a top oil and gas health, safety and environment event in Doha, Qatar, the first of its kind to include sustainable development as one of the core discussion topics.
The three-day seventh edition of the SPE Middle East Health, Safety, Environment and Sustainable Development Conference and Exhibition will conclude tomorrow (September 24) at the Qatar National Convention Centre.
The event, which is backed by Qatar Petroleum as host organisation, has been organised by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE).
Dr Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry, Qatar, said: “We, in Qatar, are very much aware of the challenges we have to meet as we manage the rapid growth of not just our industry, but also our national economy. We are undertaking a number of complex mega projects as well as an important redevelopment of the existing Bul Hanine, Dukhan, and Al-Shaheen oil fields.
“Such projects place the energy sector at the heart of our country’s development, and direct its potential towards achieving our National Vision and Development Strategy, which are guided by the vision and leadership of Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Emir of Qatar.
“The strategic importance of Qatar’s oil and gas sector has been the driving force behind many initiatives designed to maintain a robust and safe industry—an industry that implements and promotes the strictest adherence to the highest international safety regulations and standards.”
Jeff Spath, 2014 SPE president, said: “SPE encourages the responsible management of these oil and gas resources and operations including the appropriate management of social and environmental impacts and their related risks. SPE demonstrates this commitment by offering its members opportunities to train, share knowledge, and advance practices for doing business in ways that balance economic growth, social development, and environmental protection to meet societal needs today and in the future.”
Meanwhile, a one-day programme for university students is taking place today under the theme ‘HSE: A Way of Life.’
“It is admirable that an SPE Regional University Student Programme is being held in conjunction with this conference,” said Dr Al-Sada.
“It is also very encouraging to note the objectives of such a programme, foremost of which is developing local talent and encouraging young Qatari students to pursue careers in the energy industry.”
Marwa Al-Ansary, senior environmental lead at Qatar Shell, said: “Sponsoring the university student competition comes as part of Shell’s commitment to encourage the youth to pursue careers in the energy field. This is a valuable opportunity for the participating students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) issues.
“Our aim is to help develop local human capacity and talents that will help lead to a knowledge-based economy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.” - TradeArabia News Service