237: TGS's Path to Net-Zero: Sustainability Insights from Sandy Spørck

"Sustainability isn't just about the environment; it's about the economics and profitability of companies, too. We need the expertise, we need the technology - if you like solving challenges, this is the place to be." In this episode of Seismic Soundoff, host Andrew Geary sits down with Sandy Spørck to discuss the challenges and opportunities in creating a sustainable future within the oil and gas industry. Sandy shares her journey from an engineering mindset to embracing a broader, more scientific view of sustainability and TGS's steps to reach net-zero emissions. They explore the complexities of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), the role of education, and the importance of collaboration in navigating the energy transition. KEY POINTS > Sustainability and ESG: Sandy explains the difference between sustainability (as defined by the UN) and ESG, highlighting how both frameworks guide corporate transparency and environmental responsibility in the oil and gas industry. > TGS's Net-Zero Goals: TGS has committed to reducing emissions from its maritime operations by 75% by 2050 and transitioning to 100% renewable energy for onshore activities. > Decentralizing Sustainability Efforts: Sandy emphasizes the importance of involving a broader range of stakeholders across TGS, creating a sustainability network that brings diverse perspectives. > The Challenge of Climate Transition: Achieving sustainability goals is a complex process that involves trial and error, with the next few years focused on aligning efforts and understanding what works. > Education and Understanding: Sandy advocates for education as the foundation of sustainable progress, not only as a means to lift people out of poverty but also to foster a deeper understanding of the economic, societal, and environmental impacts of energy transition. Editor's Note: Between the recording and release of this podcast, PGS and TGS merged. Sandy Spørck speaks to us from her position at PGS as Chief Sustainability Officer and is now leading integration activities and strategic alignment between PGS and TGS. THIS EPISODE SPONSORED BY BLUWARE Bluware's InteractivAI is a human-powered AI seismic analysis tool, revolutionizing the way geoscientists extract value from seismic data. Unlike traditional seismic interpretation tools that just "check the box" for AI through black box algorithms, InteractivAI puts the interpreter in the driver's seat by presenting an intuitive, live feedback loop. Users experience a faster and more comprehensive interpretation, leading to higher-confidence decision-making. Learn more at https://bluware.com. SANDY'S CALL TO ACTION > Actively contribute to sustainability by focusing on what you can control or influence > Encourage decentralizing sustainability efforts - involve people across different roles to drive progress collectively. > Do not feel overwhelmed by the enormity of climate challenges, but take meaningful, manageable actions, such as improving waste management or supporting sustainable practices within one's capacity. GUEST BIO After serving as Chief Sustainability Officer at PGS, Sandy Spørck leads integration activities and strategic alignment between PGS and TGS. Sandy holds a Master of Science Degree in International Management, Business Law, Tax, and Accounting from The Norwegian School of Management and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Arizona State University. LINKS * Visit https://seg.org/podcasts/episode-237-tgss-path-to-net-zero-sustainability-insights-from-sandy-sporck/ for Sandy's full biography and the complete show notes. SHOW CREDITS Andrew Geary at TreasureMint hosted, edited, and produced this episode. The SEG podcast team comprises Jennifer Cobb, Kathy Gamble, and Ally McGinnis. If you have episode ideas or feedback for the show or want to sponsor a future episode, email the show at podcast@seg.org.