Esso releases first quarter environmental, social report

ESSO Highlands Ltd, operator of the PNG liquefied natural gas, has released its first quarter environmental and social report.The report details actions to develop the energy project in a responsible manner while bringing economic success to PNG and providing energy to meet Asia’s growing demand, the company said in a statement.Esso Highlands is a subsidiary of ExxonMobil Corp.It said the report detailed how PNG LNG was implementing commitments made in the project’s environmental and social management plan, which is based on the most comprehensive environmental impact assessment ever undertaken in the country.The report covering January to March this year also demonstrated how the project was contributing to the economic growth of the country through development of a local workforce and suppliers.Peter Graham, managing director of Esso Highlands, said: “Completion of the financing arrangements last March moved the project into a full execution phase.“We are developing this challenging project in a manner that reflects our high standards in business and operational integrity, and importantly in safety, security, health, environmental and social management.“The benefits that flow from the project will support the PNG government’s objective to strengthen its economy and infrastructure base for the benefit of its people.“This is the first in a series of reports that details our progress in this challenging project.”The project is currently at an early stage of a four-year construction period, with activities under way in design, pre-mobilisation and early site works.