Environmental guidelines for exploration operations in near-shore and sensitive areas

Over its 30 year history the UK offshore oil and gas Exploration and Production (E and P) Industry has developed into a significant contributor to the UK's economy. In this time it has continuously monitored and revised operational practices in order to minimise the environmental impact of its activities. In recent UK licensing rounds, offshore Operators have been awarded blocks which are close to the shore and outside the more mature exploration and production areas. Compared with exploration operations further offshore, Operators of near-shore blocks can encounter a greater range and variability of environmental (physical, chemical and biological) conditions. The aim of these Guidelines, which supersede those issued by UKOOA in November 1994 (Issue No.2), is to describe the best current industry environmental management practices which can be adopted by Operators in near-shore waters, without compromising safety or operational viability. No marine area should suffer adverse environmental consequences as a result of near-shore oil and gas exploration if these Guidelines are employed. (author)