bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effects of the Lodgepole Sour Gas Well Blowout on Coniferous Tree Growth: Damage and Recovery
Authors: Baker K. A. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
A dendrochronological study was used to evaluate growth impacts on White Spruce (Picea glauca (Moench)) resulting from the 1982 Lodgepole sour gas well blowout. Stem analysis was evaluated from four ecologically similar monitoring sites located on a 10 kilometre downwind gradient and compared to a control site. Incremental volume was calculated, standardized using running mean filters and analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Pre and post-blowout growth trends were analyzed between sites and were also evaluated over a height profile in order to assess growth impact variability within individual trees.
Growth reductions at the two sites closest the wellhead were statistically significant for five post-blowout years. Growth at these condensate impacted sites was reduced to 9.8 % and 38.1 % in 1983. Differences in growth reductions reflect a gradient of effects and a dose-response relationship. Recovery of surviving trees was been rapid but is leveling off at approximately 80 % of pre-blowout growth. Growth reductions were greater and recovery rates slower than those previously predicted by other authors.
Statistically significant differences in height profile growth responses were limited to the upper portions of the trees. Growth rates over a tree height profile ranged from 10 % less to 50 % more than growth rates observed at a 1.3 metres. Analytical methodologies detected and described growth differences over a height profile but a larger sample size was desirable.
As is always the case in catastrophic events, obtaining pre-event baseline data is often difficult. Dendro-chronological methods described herein offer techniques for determining pre-blowout growth and monitoring impacts and recovery in forested areas.
Process for Catalytic Flue Gas Denoxing
Authors: Woldhuis A. , Goudriaan F. , Groeneveld M. , Samson R. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
With the increasing concern for the environment, stringency of legislation and industry'sawareness of its own environmental responsibility, the demand for the reduction of emission levels of nitrogen oxides is becoming increasingly urgent.
Shell has developed a low temperature catalytic deNOx system for deep removal of nitrogen oxides, which includes a low-pressure-drop reactor. This process is able to achieve over 90% removal of nitrogen oxides and therefore can be expected to meet legislation requirements for the coming years.
The development of a low-temperature catalyst makes it possible to operate at temperatures as low as 120°C, compared to 300-400°C for the conventional honeycomb and plate-type catalysts. This allows an add-on construction, which is most often a more economical solution than the retrofits in the hot section required with conventional deNOx catalysts.
The Lateral Flow Reactor (LFR), which is used for dust-free flue gas applications, and the Parallel Passage Reactor (PPR) for dust-containing flue gas applications, have been developed to work with pressure drops below 10 mbar.
An Approach to Activities in Tropical Rainforests: Highlighted With Experiences in Gabon
Authors: van Oudenhoven J. A. C. M. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
The environmental approach towards new projects is briefly described. It is based on early execution of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The Rabi Field development in Gabon was the first large scale Shell project in a tropical rainforest where this approach was applied. The area is of considerable biological interest. Lessons learnt in the field are applied to further reduce the future impact on the environment.
Experience discussed relates to: -Protection of nature and cost saving;-Civil engineering practice in view of magnitude of work and rehabilitation;-Influence of design and mode of operation;-Gas flaring and reinjection;-Good housekeeping and waste management;-A seismic campaign where environmental considerations led to a safer, faster and cheaper survey.
It is concluded that base line study and EIA are necessary and effective tools to achieve minimal impact on the environment at optimal cost.
Much can be learnt from experiences in Rabi. Damage done during exploration and production activities in a tropical rainforest can be greatly reduced by innovative practices, by a change of mentality and a practical respect for nature.
Environmentally Sustainable Economic Development: E&P Planning in the 1990's
Authors: Jones M. G. , Woodruffe J. D. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Shell Canada adopted Sustainable Development in 1990 as the approach to managing the environment. The corporation's president, representing the energy industry on the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, provided key direction on the development of the process. The national concepts of Sustainable Development principles were utilized as a starting point, but quickly a Shell specific policy was approved, followed by Corporate Principles and Targets and Undertakings. These are being further developed in both the upstream and downstream with leadership from the Resources (E&P) Department. Cascading of Targets and Undertakings has occurred to E&P followed by operating complexes, the drilling sites and the seismic lines. Steps were carefully programmed to learn from specific application before expanding to all areas. All plans are expected to be in place by mid 1992. Plans contain short and long term targets but focus on a rolling 2 year identification of actions to meet those targets. The plans permit an annual appraisal of accomplishments as well as budgeting for successive years. The move to Sustainable Development planning is a significant shift in industry attitude and approach but demonstrates the ability for the coexistence of environmental and economic demands.
Successful Environmental Action on the Gullfaks Field Also Reduced the Drilling Operation Costs
Authors: Sunde E. , Melberg B. H. , Jøsok R. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Production drilling on the Gullfaks platforms was planned using oil based mud for the whole well path. However, in light of the growing environmental concerns about the discharges of oily cuttings, potential health hazards and in some situations reduced safety margins connected to the use of oil based drilling fluids, it was decided in 1988 to drill as much as possible of the hole volumes in the remaining wells on the Gullfaks field with water based mud. It was also a goal to use water based drilling fluids consisting of readily biodegradable and non toxic chemicals.
This paper discusses the reduction in discharged oil on drill cuttings from the three Gullfaks platforms. This reduction is approximately 95 % per well drilled with water based mud compared to the discharge from the first nine wells on Gullfaks A drilled with oil based mud. The time/depth curves for the drilling operation, from drilling out of the conductor shoe to start drilling the reservoir section on Gullfaks A, are also presented and analyzed, showing an increased drilling rate of 38 % with water based mud compared to oil based mud. The water based mud system used is described.
Environment and Petroleum Exploration in Madagascar
Authors: Ratsimandresy R. , Raveloson E. A. , Lalaharisaina J. V. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
This paper deals with the environmental problems related to Petroleum Exploration Programs (P E, P) in Madagascar and measures taken, in short terms, to minimize environment degradation resulting from these.
PEP concerns the three main western sedimentary basins (Ambilobe Basin - Majunga Basin - Morondava basin) -Fig.2- of which 12% of the surface are classified as "protected area" (forests, parks, reserves) in respect of the richness and rareness of wildlife species.
PEP's operations (seismic survey and drilling wells), when conducted in these zones, affect the system (access road, people migration), leading to the degradation of the wildlife.
For petroleum companies working in those zones, some appropriate measures (adequacy of equipment, engagement to restore damages, environment study) were required before concerned administration could grant the agreement.
One example of specific environment damages caused by Petroleum Exploration Operations is mentionned in this paper.
An Endangered Species Program: The Link Between Compliance and Conservation
Authors: O'Brien P. Y. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Listing as threatened, or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 confers significant protective measures on species of plants and animals so designated. The Benefits result from required management measures, administrative procedures, and restrictions on Both public and private sector actions.
This paper describes the most important provisions of the Endangered Species Act affecting private sector interests. It also discusses an endangered species program that Chevron has developed to aid its operations in the San Joaquin Valley of California to comply with applicable requirements while promoting conservation values. A prominent element of the program is the habitat conservation planning approach, which is emerging as an important tool in resolving conflicts between private natural resource developers and the survival and recovery needs of protected species. Although it is structured to meet United States requirements, the program contains elements which could be useful for operations wherever they must confront sensitive wildlife habitat issues.
System for Modelling and Monitoring of Offshore Discharge Water
Authors: van Dongen F. A. , Mathisen J. P. , Smits J. , Schobben H. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
This paper presents the results of a feasibility and definition study of the EUREKA project Modelling and Monitoring of Discharges from Offshore Oil and Gas Platforms (M&M).
The study, executed between October 1990 and June 1991, concluded that the development of a system to predict the behaviour and effect of discharges from offshore oil and gas platforms is feasible.
Such a M&M system could be accomplished by adapting existing software and hardware modules and developing the necessary interfaces.
Methods for Assessing Pipeline Corrosion Prevention Chemicals on the Basis of Antimicrobial Performance and Acute Toxicity to Marine Organisms
Authors: Whale G. F. , Whitham T. S. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Anticorrosion packages consisting of a biocide and oxygen scavenger may be added to linefill waters during hydrostatic testing to prevent microbially enhanced and oxygen induced corrosion. For offshore applications there are clear advantages in using anticorrosion packages which are acceptable for discharge to sea without treatment. This paper outlines an approach used to assess the antimicrobial performance and toxicity to environmentally relevant marine organisms of 7 anticorrosion packages and their components.
Antimicrobial performance was assessed by long term inhibition tests with both marine general heterotrophic (GH) and sulphate reducing bacteria (SRB). These results have been compared with those obtained from 15 minute Microtox* tests with the marine luminescent bacterium (Photobacterium phosphoreum).
The toxicity of the candidate packages and their components were determined in acute tests with the brown shrimp (Crangon crangon), a calanoid copepod (Acartia tonsa) and embryos of the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas).
When tested singly, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for all but one biocide varied between 20 and 400 mg 1-1. However, only four biocides performed adequately (MIC &lt; 500 mg l-1) for both GH and SRB when tested as mixtures with the oxygen scavenger. Similar trends were found when P. phosphoreum was used to assess antimicrobial performance.
The acute toxicity of the most toxic chemicals to the most sensitive species and the least toxic chemicals to the least sensitive species varied by a factor of 10 000. However, the rank order of toxicity of the chemicals was similar for each of the three species and there was no apparent correlation between the toxicity of the chemicals to the marine species and their antimicrobial performance.
These results enabled an effective anticorrosion package with low toxicity to relevant marine species to be identified from the candidate packages.
An Integrated Approach to Waste Minimization
Authors: Page W. B. , Chilton D. J. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Waste minimization is fast gaining recognition as a means of contending with the world’s waste problems and associated environmental pollution. Many countries have, or are now enacting, environmental legislation that will almost certainly include waste-minimization provisions. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency requires generators of hazardous wastes to report on efforts made to minimize waste volume and/or toxicity. These reporting requirements have been the catalyst for the initiation of many innovative and successful approaches to waste minimization.
There are many incentives for implementing waste-minimization programs, aside from the regulatory/compliance issue. Waste-disposal costs have risen dramatically over the last few years and this trend is expected to continue. Improvements in environmental conditions improve morale and image, both in the workplace and local communities.
Perhaps because of the compliance hysteria, waste-minimization efforts have typically focused on the physical removal of hazardous chemicals from the waste stream only, an end-of-pipe approach. Intricate systems have been developed to remove such compounds from the environment, with great success. This approach, however, is compliance driven and does not address the key to environmental fidelity-attitude.
This paper discusses the efforts of one oilfield service company, located in the United States, that initiated an integrated approach to the minimization of waste, including: –Removal of hazardous chemicals from washwater streams.–Recycling of commonly used chemicals, particularly solvents.–Substitution of commonly used hazardous chemicals with less hazardous compounds.–Recycling of office wastes.–Education and awareness programs.
The Deposition of Drill Cuttings on the Seabed
Authors: McFarlane K. , Nguyen V. T. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
The sea-bed is an important component of the biosphere, and safeguarding it is an integral part of waste management responsibility when offshore activities may result in its contamination. A study is in progress to assess the distribution of waste on the sea-bed resulting from the underwater discharge of mud-contaminated cuttings during offshore drilling. The study involves the development of a numerical model of particle dispersion and deposition complemented by measurements of their agglomeration and settlement characteristics. This activity is, in part, directed to the improving of environmental impact assessment methodology.
This paper outlines the development of the numerical model and the accompanying experimental measurements. Application of the results to date show that up to 95% of the mass of the cuttings drilled with oil-based mud discharged from a platform can be ac-counted for in the calculations. Comparisons between the simulation results and field data obtained from a three-dimensional sonar survey of the cuttings mound under the Fulmar "A" platform show encouraging agreement. Certain processes, such as granular material slippage, have been identified as significant features that need to be incorporated in the model to improve the agreement between simulation and field data. Nevertheless, the model, in its present state, has been shown to be an effective tool for assessing the impact of drilling operations on the sea-bed.
Environmental, Health, and Safety Decision Making for Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials in Producing Operations Using Pathway Exposure Analysis
Authors: Miller H. T. , Bruce E. D. , Cook L. M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
A number of health and safety issues have arisen because of the occurrence of NORM, naturally occurring radioactive materials of the 226 radium and 228 radium decay chains, in production operations. Issues such as risk to workers or the general public, disposal of contaminated production fluids, disposal of NORM removed in cleaning equipment and tubing, and procedures to follow in well rework, equipment decontamination and other types of maintenance must be addressed.
This paper describes the application of a procedural aid to decision making known as PATHWAY EXPOSURE ANALYSIS to these issues. The procedure examines the radiation exposure of individuals and population groups by calculating the dose from each exposure route and pathway. The sum of these is used to calculate the overall risk to the individual or the group. This method can be used to examine managementand procedural options to identify the option offering the smallest risk. Risk information coupled with cost estimates then permits management maximum utilization of its available resources.
Three uses of Pathway Exposure Analysis will be discussed. The first will be a description of the identification of environmentally Sound disposal or remediationoptions for production sites. The secondwill be a description of how Pathway Exposure Analysis can be usedto determine acceptable water limits for a specific classor use of surface waters. The third will demonstrate how this method can be used to reconstruct employee dose.
International Commission on Radiation Protection and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency dose conversion and dose weighing factors are used to calculate individual exposure. Results are presented in the form of dose to the maximum exposed individual and, where appropriate, as the average exposure to the exposed population.
Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) in the Oil and Gas Industry: A New Management Challenge
Authors: Grice K. J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper will attempt to explain some of the mystery associated with Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) by describing what NORM is; how it is associated with oil and gas; what problems NORM may present; how it can be measured; and what current and pending regulations may affect how NORM contaminated equipment and soil can be handled. Unfortunately, at the present time the answers to the last item are by no means definitive. In fact, the answers in dealing with NORM will be an evolutionary process shaped by regulatory agencies, industry and the public. But first, let's discuss what NORM is.
Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials, otherwise known as NORM, represent a wide range of radioactive isotopes, including such elements as carbon 14 and potassium 40. Both of which are present in the human body. However, the main radioactive elements of concern in oil and gas production are those found throughout the earths crust and specifically are present in the formations from which oil and gas are produced. These elements include Uranium and Thorium and their respective daughter products including Radon gas. Yes, this is the same radon gas that may be present in your home and is receiving all the attention from the media and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a leading cause of lung cancer deaths. The presence of these materials in oil and gas operations has been known practically since we first learned about radioactive materials. However, it was not until the early 1980's that NORM became recognized as a potential problem. To see where we are today with the NORM issue, it's a good idea to look at the beginning.
Marine Mammals and Seismic Research in the Dutch Continental Shelf
Authors: van Dessel J. P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In recent years, interest and concern for marine mammals (seals, dolphins and whales) particular on the Dutch continental shelf has greatly increased. These concerns have led the Dutch Government to consider banning seismic research in the Dutch Continental Shelf during the period April to October, with effect from 1991. Seismic research is intensive during the sunnier sccson because current methods depend on good weather conditions.
The importance of the environment, as well as the interest of the E&P industrie in the Dutch Continental Shelf, demand careful consideration of this problem. Four aspects need consideration:
– the presence or absence of marine mammals, – seismic research techniques, – the interaction between both of the above, – the effectiveness of protective measures.
In the following sections, the occurrence of marine mammals in the Dutch Continental Shelf, the ecology of the various species, the developement and current status of seismic research and the effect of such seismic investigations upon marine mammals are discussed. Conclusions are drawn in Section 5 concerning the necessity and effectiveness of the proposed ban. Likewise, recommendations have been made in Section 6 on a possible course of action .
Environmental Auditing of Government Administration Systems for the Petroleum Industry
Authors: Hughes H. R. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
New Zealand's Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment has an environmental auditing role for reviewing government systems that manage the allocation, use and preservation of petroleum reserves and the performance of public authorities in implementing the systems.
The functions and powers of the Commissioner under the Environment Act are explained.
The Commissioner has audited proposals for a new offshore gas platform and has reviewed current administrative arrangements for dealing with oil spills. In carrying out these investigations a number of deficiencies in government policies and legislation were noted.
A lack of criteria whereby governments make decisions on resource allocations is of concern. Government responsibility for policy decisions which address the effects of petroleum extraction and use needs to be made explicit so that effective planning for exploration and production can take place. The desirability of governments, rather than the industry, setting depletion rates is discussed.
A fragmentation of responsibility between central government, local government and the industry, together with a lack of resources, had disadvantaged effective planning for preventing and containing oil spills in New Zealand.
These issues are discussed with respect to where responsibility should lie and where legislative and regulatory control are desirable.
Communication and cooperation between all affected groups including the public is an important aspect of effective environmental planning and management by public authorities. Advice from the Commissioner on how environmental administration could be improved is identified.
Employee Assistance Programs in the Upstream Petroleum Industry: A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Crutcher R. A. , Yip R. Y. , Young M. R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper is a descriptive overview of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) in the upstream Canadian petroleum industry. The authors review current EAP models within the occupational health setting and the Canadian health care context This article also explores the challenging issues of EAP's emergent functions in workplace substance abuse programs, its changing role in organizational effectiveness and its professional identity.
Psychosocial Aspects of the Offshore Oil Industry
Authors: Sutherland K. M. , Flin R. H. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
The British sector of the North Sea oil and gas industry currently employs over 30,000 individuals on drilling rigs, production platforms and support vessels, yet very little is known about the psychological demands of this work environment. This paper describes a research project designed to examine some of the psychological and social aspects of offshore working life. Three operating companies and one contracting company participated in the study which involved a series of interviews followed by a questionnaire survey designed to collect information on demographic factors, Type A behaviour pattern, sources of stress, job satisfaction, physical and mental health.