One of the most relevant findings presented by the Oil Barometer relates to the increased appreciation for the oil industry, in a context marked by the contraction of the industry due to the price crisis, a situation evident in the producing regions. Thus, since 2019, the recognition of the industry's contributions in terms of job creation has fallen – from 24% in 2019 to 9% in 2021; investment in corporate social responsibility – from 25% to 9%; and contribution to the region's progress – dropping from 23% to 10%. Despite the above, the results show that the number of people in producing areas who consider the industry positive for their municipality increased from 67% in 2019 to 77% in 2020; as well as the number of people who have a positive image of oil and gas companies – rising from 55% to 63% with the progress made in the energy transition process in the country, a conversation that is fundamental in the country's context.
“The reform of the general royalties system is key to this change in perception. We committed to returning greater allocations to the producing regions. There is a significant budget of more than 17.6 trillion pesos. We have been promoting the importance of the sector from a macroeconomic, social perspective, as a generator of employment and foreign investment.” Minister of Mines and Energy, Diego Mesa Puyo
The study also shows that young people are the most critical of the industry and that in this sense, it is necessary to start prioritizing conversations with this population segment. Among Colombians over 55 years old, 81% believe that the oil industry is positive for the country, this proportion drops to 65% among young people. Likewise, only 46% of this group agree that exploration, production, and transportation of gas activities should be carried out.
A third very relevant finding is the evolution of the conversation about fracking in the country. While in 2019, 35% of Colombians stated they felt anger towards the possibility of fracking in the country, in 2021 this proportion fell to 28%, and more importantly, the number of Colombians who claim it is necessary to get involved in decisions about how it will be done increased from 23% to 27%.
Finally, it is essential to highlight the advances in social licensing that the oil and gas industry has made in the last three years. According to the methodology proposed by Thomson & Boutilier, the percentage of Colombians at the lowest level of social license has significantly decreased, showing that as conversations are strengthened, and the sector's relationship is viewed as an issue beyond economic transaction, it is possible to positively advance in consolidating a mutually beneficial relationship with the operating territories.
Colombian Association of Oil and Gas