How the Iran war is increasing emissions from oil and gas sites

The ongoing war in the Middle East is driving a rise in emissions from oil and gas infrastructure, according to analysis by Bloomberg Green and investigative consultancy Data Desk.

Satellite data shows that facilities across the region are burning off more natural gas than usual, a process known as flaring, which releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

From February 28 to March 22, the United Arab Emirates’ Das Island liquefied natural gas facility emitted an estimated 74,100 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent due to flaring.

Meanwhile, Qatar’s Ras Laffan facility, the world’s largest LNG export hub, added approximately 101,300 metric tons, comparable to the annual emissions of more than 20,000 cars.

Analysts say the increase is linked to disruptions caused by the war, including direct strikes, precautionary shutdowns, and blocked exports, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.

When gas cannot be transported or stored, operators are often forced to burn it off or release it.

Experts also note that satellite imagery has detected higher flaring activity across multiple sites in the region.