American Oil and Gas Reporter - March 2023 - 71

SpecialReport: ESG Best Practices
fluid as possible improves drilling operations'
economic efficiency, especially
in times of high diesel prices. In some
areas of the Eagle Ford, for instance, the
cost of a barrel of oil-based mud is around
$175, which makes it a valuable resource
that is worth conserving.
Panther uses state-of-the-art solids
control equipment to dry cuttings and reclaim
all possible fluids, minimizing the
haul-off on both fluids and solids. Our
equipment also can recycle much of the
used oil-based mud.
This gets to the heart of what we consider
the real reason behind closed-loop
systems: Reclaim as much as possible;
haul off as little as you can. Nevertheless,
closed-loop systems also provide other
benefits, and we believe that these systems
are the future of the oil and gas industry,
which makes us proud to be at the forefront
of this technology.
Modern Closed-Loop
The upfront costs of implementing a
closed-loop system typically are offset by
reduced hauling and disposal costs. Additionally,
the overall efficiency of drilling
operations may improve with closed-loop
systems and trim costs further.
State-of-the-art solids control equipment
also makes closed-loop systems
better for drilling operations. Not only
does this equipment effectively separate
drilling solids from drilling fluid, but it
also ensures that the fluid can be reused
in the drilling process, reducing the
need for constant disposal and fresh
makeup fluid.
By minimizing waste and limiting the
discharge of drilling fluids and solids into
the environment, closed-loop systems are
a critical tool for shrinking drilling operations'
environmental impact. In addition
to the environmental benefits, closed-loop
systems also improve drilling projects'
efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Furthermore, today's solids control
equipment is crucial to the effectiveness
of closed-loop systems. With equipment
such as shale shakers, hydrocyclones and
centrifuges, solids control ensures that
each stage removes progressively smaller
particles from the drilling fluid. Removing
solids and other materials can extend fluid
life, improve drilling efficiency and reduce
drilling operations' environmental impact.
With a growing emphasis on environmental
sustainability, many production
companies are turning to closed-loop
waste management systems to minimize
drilling waste and, as a result, reduce
their volumes of offsite waste disposal.
This can lower the risk of accidents and
spills during transportation. They also
can help conserve water and other depletable
resources that would be necessary
for new treatment processes.
Other benefits of closed-loop systems
include lessening the need for human resources
dedicated to waste hauling and
disposal, allowing personnel to focus on
other areas of the operation. This can
improve safety and worker satisfaction,
as well as reduce waste disposal's environmental
impact. Additionally, closedloop
systems often have built-in safety
mechanisms, such as automated monitoring
and control, which further improve
safety and environmental performance.
Overall, closed-loop systems offer a
unique combination of environmental and
financial benefits that make them a gamechanger
for the oil and gas industry.
Win-Win Solution
The oil and gas industry is evolving
constantly, and as we navigate a changing
landscape, closed-loop systems offer a
compelling solution for producing companies
looking to balance economic,
social and environmental concerns.
By embracing these systems, companies
not only can reduce their environmental
footprints, but also improve their
social and governance standing, demonstrating
a responsible approach to conducting
operations. Their adoption also
may have a positive impact on investor
attitudes toward the oil and gas industry.
As more investors prioritize ESG factors
in their decision-making processes,
companies that demonstrate a commitment
to sustainability and responsible operations
may be better positioned to attract investment.
Moreover, the operational efficiency
and financial benefits of closedloop
systems cannot be overlooked.
Closed-loop systems allow for the
treatment, recycling and reuse of drilling
fluid, thereby reducing offsite waste disposal.
This, in turn, leads to significant
cost savings for oil and gas companies,
making their operations more profitable
and efficient.
As the industry continues to evolve
and face new challenges, adopting innovative
technologies and practices that
promote sustainability and responsible
operations will be essential for success.
Closed-loop systems are a win-win for
the industry, the environment and local
communities.
❒
GARROW
WESSENDORFF
Garrow Wessendorff is president, chief executive officer and managing partner of the
Panther Companies, which provides drilling and completion fluids, production chemicals,
solids control services, closed-loop equipment, haul-off and disposal services, and wellsite
fluid engineers. He has more than 17 years of operations management experience in the
finance and oil and gas sectors. Before founding Panther, Wessendorff was a partner and vice
president of operations at Stryker Fuels and a vice president of commercial lending at Frost
National Bank.
MARCH 2023 71

American Oil and Gas Reporter - March 2023

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