Business
Marathon Oil Settlement for Environmental Violations
Learn about the Marathon Oil settlement for environmental violations, including the impact on the environment and the consequences faced by the company. Stay informed on this important environmental issue.
Marathon Oil has reached a significant agreement to address allegations of unlawful emissions of methane and other pollutants from its oil and gas facilities in North Dakota.
As part of the proposed settlement, Marathon Oil, headquartered in Houston, will pay a substantial $241.5 million. This includes a $64.5 million civil penalty, the largest-ever fine for violations of the Clean Air Act related to stationary infrastructure.
In addition to the financial penalties, Marathon Oil has committed to investing $177 million to reduce future emissions in North Dakota, with a specific focus on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. The Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) cited the company for violations of permitting requirements and other regulations in recent years in this area.
This settlement aligns with the E.P.A.’s broader initiative to curb greenhouse gas emissions from oil and gas facilities. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is a key target for regulators due to its significant short-term impact on global warming when released into the atmosphere.
David M. Uhlmann, an assistant administrator at the E.P.A., emphasized the agency’s dedication to combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future through such actions.