General:
The National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC), a central player in Iran's energy sector, has been mired in controversy and scrutiny since its inception. Established under the complete ownership of the Iranian government, NIOC has held a dominant position in the exploration, production, refining, and distribution of oil and natural gas within Iran's borders. However, its operations have been shrouded in allegations of environmental negligence, labor rights violations, and political entanglements. Despite these challenges, NIOC maintains a firm grip on Iran's energy resources, operating within a landscape fraught with domestic and international complexities.
Environmental Impact:
NIOC's sprawling operations in the oil and gas industry have cast a long shadow over environmental concerns, particularly in relation to climate change. The extraction, refining, and utilization of fossil fuels under NIOC's purview contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating global warming and environmental degradation. In 2022, NIOC's estimated CO2 emissions reached a staggering 392 million metric tons, underscoring the magnitude of its environmental footprint and the imperative to address its contribution to climate change.