Shell plc

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Shell plc is a global group of energy and petrochemical companies with headquarters in London, United Kingdom. It is one of the oil and gas "supermajors" and the third-largest company in the world measured by 2020 revenues (and the largest based in Europe). Shell is involved in the exploration, production, refining, and marketing of oil and natural gas, as well as the manufacturing and marketing of chemicals. Operating in more than 70 countries, it produces around 3.7 million barrels of oil equivalent per day and has around 44,000 service stations worldwide.

History

Shell's origins date back to the late 19th century, when the company was founded by Marcus Samuel, 1st Viscount Bearsted, and his brother Samuel Samuel. The company started as a small London business that sold antiques, curios, and oriental shells, hence the name "Shell". The discovery of oil in the East Indies at the end of the 19th century led to the brothers expanding their business to include oil trading. The Shell Transport and Trading Company was created in 1897.

In the early 20th century, Shell merged with the Royal Dutch Petroleum Company to form the Royal Dutch Shell Group. The merger was designed to compete with the then-dominant American oil companies such as Standard Oil. The group restructured in 2005, becoming a single parent company based in the Netherlands, but with its primary listing on the London Stock Exchange.

Operations

Shell is involved in every area of the oil and gas industry, including exploration, production, refining, distribution, and marketing. It also has a renewable energy division that focuses on biofuels, hydrogen, solar energy, and wind energy. Shell has made commitments to increase its spending on renewable energy and aims to become a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050.

Exploration and Production

Shell's upstream operations involve the exploration for and extraction of crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. The company has significant operations in the USA, the North Sea, Nigeria, and Malaysia, among other regions.

Refining and Marketing

Shell's downstream operations include the refining of crude oil into a variety of products, including gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel. The company also manufactures and sells a wide range of petrochemicals for industrial use. Shell's global network of service stations is one of the world's most recognizable retail brands.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Shell has faced criticism and legal challenges related to its environmental and social impact. The company has been involved in several high-profile oil spills and has faced lawsuits related to its climate change impact. In response, Shell has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint and invest in renewable energy sources. However, environmental groups have argued that the company's actions are insufficient in addressing the urgent need for climate action.

Corporate Structure

Shell plc is a public limited company registered in England and Wales. It has a complex corporate structure, with subsidiaries and joint ventures across the globe. The company's shares are primarily listed on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings on the Euronext Amsterdam and the New York Stock Exchange.

Controversies

Over the years, Shell has been involved in various controversies, including environmental degradation, human rights abuses, and its role in climate change. Notably, the company's operations in the Niger Delta have been a source of significant environmental and social issues, leading to widespread criticism and legal action.

See Also

• Petroleum industry
• Renewable energy
• Global warming
• Oil spill

Shell plc Resources
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