Research Document 2020/040
Oil and gas exploration and production activities in areas with defined benthic conservation objectives: A review of potential impacts and mitigation measures
By Oak, T.G.
Abstract
This paper summarizes the results of a literature review on key potential effects of routine marine oil and gas exploration, development and production activities on benthic species and habitats, and considers measures that may reduce impacts in areas with defined benthic conservation objectives. “Areas with defined benthic conservation objectives” may include benthic species (demersal fishes and invertebrates); benthic habitats (spawning, nursery and feeding grounds), and Sensitive Benthic Areas (SBAs) (corals, sponges, canyons, seamounts and hydrothermal vents). SBAs are cornerstones of deep-sea biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, forming complex habitats and providing other biota with food and nutrients, refuge from predators, nursery grounds, hard surfaces for invertebrates, and structures for sessile organisms.
Potential impacts of the following exploration and production activities are described: seismic, electromagnetic and seabed surveys; placement and presence of seabed infrastructure; exploration and development drilling discharges; and treatment and discharge of produced water. While other activities have the potential to impact areas with defined benthic conservation objectives (e.g., accidental events, decommissioning), this review focuses on routine operational activities. Mitigation measures to reduce potential impacts and associated pros and cons are identified and emerging drilling and production technologies and management strategies are highlighted. Considerations in acquiring seabed imagery and establishing setbacks in areas with defined benthic conservation objectives are also discussed.
There remain substantial uncertainties regarding the impacts of routine marine oil and gas exploration and production activities, perhaps particularly on benthic species and habitats. The implementation of mitigation measures, management protocols and technological innovations may reduce impacts of marine oil and gas exploration and production on benthic species and habitats; however, there is a dearth of literature on their effectiveness. Increasing our understanding of pathways of effects, thresholds and potential impacts should facilitate the development and implementation of management strategies and mitigation measures that are both effective and practical. This is of particular importance when contemplating oil and gas activities in areas with defined benthic conservation areas, given their inferred or established vulnerability to anthropogenic activities.
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