What are fugitive emissions?

Fugitive emissions refer specifically to unintentional releases of gases or vapors from processes, equipment, or storage systems that are not captured and reported as part of normal emissions. This can include emissions from leaks in pipes, valves, joints, or other equipment where gases escape into the atmosphere. These emissions are significant because they typically occur in various industries, such as oil and gas, chemicals, and manufacturing, and can contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas accumulation.

Understanding fugitive emissions is crucial in sustainability and environmental management because they present challenges in monitoring and regulatory compliance. Addressing these emissions often involves implementing better leak detection and repair practices and improving equipment integrity to minimize inadvertent releases. This highlights the importance of recognizing and managing all potential sources of emissions within an organization's operations to enhance their overall sustainability efforts.