Background MI100 Marine oil and gas exploration and production results in inputs of oil hazardous chemicals, the mobilisation of natural radionuclides and trace metals, and disruption to benthic life and to fisheries.
Inputs result both from accidental and operational discharges.
Recent studies also suggest that high levels of cadmium and reactive mercury in waters adjacent to platforms might also be the result of operational discharge. Drill cuttings, also dumped from platforms, are contaminated with oil and chemicals, are causing long-term effects on benthic life surrounding platforms. Seabed subsidence, as a result of removal of oil and gas deposits beneath it, is also of concern. We will draw up a comprehensive inventory of sensitive sea areas where oil and gas exploration and production will not be allowed. Much tighter environmental controls will be applied to oil and gas exploration.