Russia to reduce carbon emissions

Russia: Russian projects for efficient utilization of gasses associated with petroleum will reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere, predicted the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) said Wednesday.

Environmental Policy Director in the hydrocarbons division of the WWF in Russia, Alexei Knizhnikov welcomed the decision of Economic Development Ministry to devote at least six projects to the application of efficient uses for fuel gasses in Russia's oil fields.

He stated that the initiative is particularly relevant in relation to the Russian government's strategy to reduce carbon emissions and develop sustainable sources of clean energy.

According to WWF, Russia ranks among the leading countries in the world in carbon emissions. If these projects succeed they will prevent the release of about 100 million tons of carbon dioxide, said the source.

The state-owned Gazpromneft and Rosneft lead the list of Russian corporations to assume the environmental projects.

On the challenges of climate change, President Dmitri Medvedev promised to address the problems with energy efficiency and a reduction of polluting emissions, with or without international agreement.

In March 2010, about 35 domestic companies pledged to reduce exhaust gases, at a rate equivalent to 77.5 million tons of carbon dioxide. Moscow, Prensa Latina