Decommissioning, well plugging, and abandonment (D&A) are often the unsung heroes of the oil and gas industry. While these activities are crucial to any project’s lifecycle, they are frequently overlooked during the initial planning stages. Despite the significant costs associated with D&A, which can sometimes even exceed those of initial development, they rarely receive the same level of attention as construction and drilling.

This neglect can lead to significant financial and environmental liabilities. Planning for decommissioning from the very beginning of a project is essential to mitigate these risks. Operators can significantly reduce costs and minimise environmental impact by incorporating D&A considerations into the initial project design.

The presentation shared valuable insights and lessons learned from global projects. By understanding the importance of proactive D&A planning, we can ensure a sustainable future for the oil and gas industry.