Comprehensive fugitive emissions management as a key component of sustainable industry

According to European Standard EN 15446:2008, fugitive emissions are defined as atmospheric emissions caused by the loss of tightness in a device designed to be leak tight. These emissions can occur at multiple stages of the industrial value chain, from extraction to transport, storage and distribution, and affect sectors such as petrochemicals, energy, waste treatment, and the chemical industry.

At Applus+, our fugitive emissions service encompasses a wide range of solutions covering the entire process, from detection to the quantification, control, and reduction of these emissions at industrial facilities. Through a comprehensive approach aligned with European legislation and the most stringent international standards, Applus+ helps organizations meet their regulatory obligations and sustainably improve their environmental performance.

Tighter EU rules on methane emissions

The European regulatory framework continues to evolve towards greater control of methane emissions. In 2025, the Council of the European Union gave the green light to regulations under the "Fit for 55" package, introducing new requirements for emissions measurement, reporting, and verification in the energy sector. These measures include the obligation to implement leak detection and repair programmes, as well as restrictions on venting and flaring.  

The main challenge posed by these emissions lies in their unintended and diffuse nature, which makes them difficult to detect and control. In addition to their environmental impact, they represent significant economic losses associated with the leakage of raw materials and products, as well as risks to safety and health in industrial environments.

Controlling and reducing fugitive emissions

In this context, Applus+ offers a comprehensive approach that includes the design and implementation of regulatory compliance programmes, the deployment of emissions monitoring systems and technical support for the maintenance of industrial facilities to ensure regulatory compliance. We also compile comprehensive inventories of potential leak points, manage the entire inspection campaign follow-up process, and oversee repair and maintenance activities. All these measures contribute to more efficient, structured, and auditable fugitive emissions management.

LDAR: leak detection and quantification

One of the key pillars of our service is the LDAR (Leak Detection and Repair) methodology, based on the systematic inspection of equipment and facilities to identify, quantify and repair leaks.

This process relies on advanced technologies such as optical gas imaging (OGI) and PID/FID measurement equipment, enabling accurate qualitative and quantitative emissions assessments.

The LDAR programmes developed by Applus+ are implemented across sectors such as petrochemicals, energy and gas, waste management and livestock farming, and are aligned with international initiatives such as OGMP 2.0 for methane emissions reduction.

Effective fugitive emissions management is not only a regulatory requirement but also an opportunity to improve operational efficiency and reduce losses across the value chain.

By combining specialized inspections, advanced technologies and systematic leak detection and repair programmes, Applus+ helps organizations strengthen facility control, reduce environmental impact and move towards a safer, more efficient and sustainable industry.