Risks of Unplugged Oil and Gas Wells in US

Over 14,000 inactive oil and gas wells in the Gulf of Mexico's offshore waters, inland waters and wetlands remain unplugged, posing the risk of possible leaks into the ocean, according to a study published in Nature Energy. Plugging and abandoning these wells could prevent environmental risks but could cost more than $30 billion. There are more inactive, non-producing wells that have not been plugged and abandoned than currently active wells in this region. The paper highlights the environmental importance of prioritizing the plugging of state and shallow water wells, and the potential financial liability to companies.