What is burned off at oil refineries?

At oil refineries, various byproducts are burned off during the refining process, primarily including excess gases such as methane, propane, and butane. These gases may be flared to safely dispose of them when they cannot be efficiently captured or reused. Additionally, some volatile organic compounds and other impurities are also incinerated to minimize emissions and environmental impact. This burning process helps maintain safety and regulatory compliance while managing waste products.