![[logo] US EPA](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090511220534im_/http://www.epa.gov/epafiles/images/logo_epaseal.gif){kind=logo}
Join the Program
Created in collaboration with industry, the Natural Gas STAR Program serves as a credible and trusted resource for oil and natural gas companies interested in reducing methane emissions. By participating in this Program, partner companies drive innovation and build a lasting record of their accomplishments and best practice leadership. Together, EPA and the oil and natural gas industry are increasing natural gas supply, generating additional revenue, improving social performance, increasing operational efficiency, and making positive contributions to the environment at large.
Partnership in the Natural Gas STAR Program is open to companies operating in the United States and abroad. To become a partner, simply review, sign and submit a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This important step initiates the partnership, demonstrates the company’s commitment to the Program, and identifies company points of contact. MOU forms for companies operating in the United States and internationally are available online. For more information about becoming a Natural Gas STAR partner, roles, and responsibilities, visit Guidelines to Participation.
Partnership benefits include:
- Information Sharing and Technology Transfer – EPA facilitates Technology Transfer and Annual Workshops and publishes detailed Lessons Learned Studies and Partner Reported Opportunities (PRO) Fact Sheets; technical reports and studies; annual partner summary reports; and a quarterly newsletter to help partners learn about new and innovative technologies and practices.
- Program and Technical Assistance – Natural Gas STAR offers a full range of Program support and technical assistance to partners. Through such services as project- and operational-level analyses, technical workshops, and administrative Program support, EPA provides guidance that helps partners reap the full economic and environmental benefits of reducing methane emissions. The Natural Gas STAR Team includes technical experts from all sectors of the oil and natural gas industry, as well as communication and outreach professionals.
- Peer Networking – Partners can participate in Technology Transfer Workshops, Annual Implementation Workshops, and Web-based communications to build strong networks with industry peers and keep up on industry trends, initiatives, and the latest technologies.
- Voluntary Record of Reductions – Through Program participation and reporting, companies create a permanent record of their voluntary accomplishments in reducing methane emissions. In addition, annual reporting allows EPA to provide feedback to partners through individual, detailed summary reports.
- Public Recognition – EPA provides recognition, honors, and distinctions to highlight partner achievements at an annual awards ceremony, in articles in the Program newsletter and industry journals, public service announcements, and technical studies and fact sheets. EPA also helps partners communicate Program achievements to shareholders, customers, and the public.
After your MOU has been received by EPA, you will be contacted by a Program representative to offer assistance in working with you to plan your company's participation and implementation strategy. Natural Gas STAR can also provide you with a variety of tools and resources to assist you in implementing the Program across your company’s operations.
To learn more about this important government-industry partnership, visit Guidelines to Participation or download the Natural Gas STAR Program Fact Sheet (4 pp, 1.1 MB, About PDF).