IPIECA provides one of the industry's principal channels of communication with the United Nations.

IPIECA is the single global association representing both the upstream and downstream oil and gas industry on key global environmental and social issues. IPIECA's programme takes full account of international developments in these issues, serving as a forum for discussion and cooperation involving industry and international organisations.

IPIECA aims to develop and promote scientifically-sound, cost-effective, practical, socially and economically acceptable solutions to global environmental and social issues pertaining to the oil and gas industry. IPIECA is not a lobbying organisation, but provides a forum for encouraging continuous improvement of industry performance.

IPIECA draws on the skills and experiences of its international membership through various committees, supported by a small secretariat. IPIECA currently has a number of Working Groups and Task Forces, comprising: Climate Change; Biodiversity; Social Responsibility; Oil Spill; Operational, Fuels & Product Issues; Health and Sustainability Reporting.

StatoilHydro is a member of IPIECA.