Invisible threads: Rethinking subsurface intelligence for a lower impact

As the energy industry accelerates toward decarbonization, the opportunity to reduce environmental impact lies beneath the surface literally. Subsurface operations, especially those involving drilling, are major contributors to emissions during the life of a well. This paper explores how an integrated, digitally enabled drilling approach where drilling services, drill bits, and drilling fluids are combined as a unified intelligence system can transform performance and sustainability outcomes. Using insights rooted in Baker Hughes’ approach, we analyze how invisible threads of data and integration reduce emissions intensity while enhancing operational precision.