BP to quit main US refining lobby

LONDON, Feb 27 (Reuters): BP will leave the main US. refining lobby and two other trade groups as new Chief Executive Bernard Looney spurs some of the oil sector's most ambitious targets for curbing carbon emissions.

The decision follows a review of its membership in over 30 associations around the world, which Looney said in a post on Instagram was aimed at boosting people's trust in the oil and gas company.

"BP will pursue opportunities to work with organisations who share our ambitious and progressive approach to the energy transition," Looney said in a statement.

BP said its view on carbon pricing, which it says is key in the energy transition, were "at odds" with those of the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), which has around 300 members.

It will also not renew its membership in the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) and Western Energy Alliance (WEA). "AFPM is and has been committed to supporting policies that address climate change," said AFPM Chief Executive Chet Thompson. "Because of that, it leads us to assume that this decision was made based on factors other than our actual positions on the issues."

Bruce Duguid, head of stewardship at Federated Hermes, which has led talks with BP on shareholder climate resolutions in recent years, welcomed the move.

"Supportive public policy is vital to achieving BP's bold vision to become a net zero company by 2050 or sooner," Duguid said in a statement.

BP has called for placing a price on carbon emissions in order to push out the most polluting fossil fuel production including coal and encourage investment in renewable energy.