Flaring and venting involve the release of gases, including carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere. These releases are sometimes necessary as part of safe operations. Flaring is the controlled burning of waste gases from oil and natural gas operations. Venting is a controlled release of unburned gases into the atmosphere, such as natural gas or other hydrocarbon vapours, water vapour, or other gases. Venting may occur during several processes including well completion, during maintenance, or in emergency situations. Operators seek to limit venting by combusting or conserving natural gas where possible.