The Environment and crude oil, as well as gas extraction, are closely related. The environment has been one single element that has suffered the effects of such activities and accordingly, it has attracted a bevy of international and national efforts and actions to reverse the damage already done and to prevent further damage. This study focused on assessing the effectiveness of the Petroleum Act of 2012 and international practice in protecting the environment in Ruweng Administrative Area of South Sudan. It reviewed how oil and gas extraction policies made under the Act have enhanced environmental protection in South Sudan.

The study found that respondents were aware of the causes of environmental degradation in Ruweng Administrative Area. The respondents noted lost livelihood of residents at 14.2% due to ecological destabilization through contamination of land and water bodies, thus leading to low agricultural production and reduction in fishing and farming activities caused land and water pollution. The study found that oil extraction companies did not fully comply with both international environmental laws and international practices and South Sudan procedures and regulations. Companies did not commit to health and safety procedures in protecting the environment from pollution.