By Senator Pete Campos

In recent years, New Mexico’s oil and gas industry has made significant strides in becoming more environmentally and climate-friendly. As one of the nation’s leading producers of oil and natural gas, our state has a unique responsibility to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. I am proud to say that we are rising to the challenge.

Through stringent regulations and innovative practices, the industry is reducing its environmental footprint while continuing to drive our state’s economy.

One of the most notable achievements is the reduction of methane emissions. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has been a significant concern for the industry. However, New Mexico has implemented some of the most rigorous methane regulations in the country, and the industry is meeting and surpassing these goals. These regulations require operators to capture 98% of gas at well sites by 2026, preventing it from entering the atmosphere and contributing to climate change.

In addition to regulatory measures, the industry continues to embrace and create new technologies and practices to foster environmental stewardship. Advanced monitoring systems, improved leak detection and repair protocols, and the use of cleaner-burning equipment are just a few examples of how the industry is innovating to protect our air.

Water management is another critical area where the industry is making significant progress. Fresh water is New Mexico’s most precious resource, and we must work together to conserve it and promote reuse and recycling measures. By emphasizing the reuse and recycling of water, we are taking important steps to protect our precious water resources and ensure their sustainable use.

Collaboration is key to success. The industry, government agencies, and environmental organizations are working together to develop and implement solutions that benefit all New Mexicans. This collaborative approach ensures transparency and best practice sharing. Let’s all sit down and work together to find solutions that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.

The benefits of these collaborative efforts extend beyond environmental protection. By reducing emissions and improving efficiency, the industry is also enhancing its economic sustainability. Cleaner operations mean less waste and more product captured, translating to increased profitability for our state and career creation.

Thanks to our diligent stewardship of the state budget, we have positioned ourselves to thrive and capitalize on our investments, even as we work toward an energy transition. The contributions of the oil and gas sector have laid a strong foundation for this prosperity. If we attempt to diminish the role of oil and gas, we risk losing vital economic stimulus and seeing jobs migrate to other states. Currently, we are on the right path, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for all New Mexicans.

As we look to the future, it is clear that New Mexico’s oil and gas industry is committed to leading the way in environmental responsibility. Our progress is a testament to what can be achieved when we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. I am confident that we will continue to build on this foundation, ensuring that our natural resources are developed in a manner that protects our environment and supports our communities.

Together, we are creating a brighter, cleaner, healthier, and more profitable future for New Mexico.

Pete Campos is a New Mexico State Senator representing District 8. He has been a Senator since 1991.