Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Environmental Footprint Assessment of Sub-Saharan Africa’s Oil Energy Companies: Case of BOCOM Petroleum, Douala-Cameroon

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and environmental footprint of BOCOM Petroleum, a mid-sized downstream oil company operating in Douala, Cameroon. In response to the critical need for empirical data on industrial emissions in Sub-Saharan Africa, a mixed-methods approach combining Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), carbon accounting, and stakeholder interviews was adopted. Emissions were categorised following the GHG Protocol into Scope 1 (direct), Scope 2 (energy-related), and Scope 3 (value chain). Results reveal total annual emissions of 51,734 CO2, kg/year, with Scope 3 accounting for 38%, Scope 2 for 33%, and Scope 1 for 29%. Major emission sources include stationary combustion, laboratory processes, and the use of electricity-intensive heat-generating machines. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) was developed, proposing actionable measures such as process optimisation, adoption of energy-efficient equipment, electrification of vehicle fleets, and improved waste management. Findings underscore the need for systemic decarbonisation strategies among mid-sized oil firms and highlight the alignment of corporate initiatives with Cameroon’s climate commitments. This study contributes a replicable methodological framework for emission auditing in industrial enterprises across the region and calls for further integration of environmental and financial planning in corporate sustainability strategies.