Pipelines: The Safest Transportation Method

Pipelines are the safest and most environmentally friendly way to transport natural gas and oil products. With nearly 3 million miles of pipelines running throughout the U.S., mostly unseen, they bring essential energy to homes, businesses, and utilities efficiently and reliably.

Environmental Impact: Lower Carbon Emissions

Pipelines help lower carbon emissions by reducing the need to transport fuel over long distances by truck or train, which both have higher levels of carbon emissions. 

Every major pipeline project undergoes a rigorous planning process, including a detailed study of its environmental impacts. This comprehensive review considers the potential effects on natural resources, wildlife, habitats, and cultural resources. Pipeline operators are committed to protecting the natural environment by employing proven land management practices. The industry has developed broad programs to improve public and community engagement and establish standardized conservation efforts, driving long-term positive impacts across the communities in which they operate.

Getting Safer while Delivering More Energy

Pipeline operators are committed to achieving the industry-wide goal of zero operating incidents. In fact, total pipeline incidents decreased twenty-three percent since 2019, with 87 fewer incidents in that span. Incidents impacting people or the environment (IPE) declined seven percent in the last five years, with pipeline mileage and barrels delivered both increasing about five percent in that time.

Economic Benefits: Lower Energy Costs and Job Creation

The development of natural gas and oil pipelines has far-reaching benefits for the entire U.S. economy.

A single major pipeline construction project can generate over 42,000 jobs, paying more than $2 billion in salaries for workers and their families. High-paying jobs in construction, manufacturing, transportation, and refining are all dependent on pipelines.

Jobs and Economic Impact

Between 2013 and 2016, pipeline infrastructure supported over a million jobs. In 2019 alone, nearly 400,000 direct jobs were provided in pipeline construction, operations, and maintenance. Indirect jobs include support services such as welding and steel manufacturing. Overall, the natural gas and oil industry supports 11.3 million full- and part-time jobs, accounting for nearly six percent of total U.S. employment in 2019.