What can offshore drilling companies do to reduce their environmental impact?

1 Use cleaner fuels

One of the simplest ways to reduce the environmental impact of offshore drilling is to use cleaner fuels for the vessels, rigs, and equipment that are involved in the process. Cleaner fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), biodiesel, or hydrogen, can reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter that contribute to air pollution and climate change. Cleaner fuels can also lower the risk of oil spills and fire accidents, as they are less flammable and volatile than conventional fuels.

2 Implement spill prevention and response plans

Another way to reduce the environmental impact of offshore drilling is to implement spill prevention and response plans that can minimize the likelihood and severity of oil spills. Spill prevention and response plans should include regular inspections, maintenance, and testing of the pipelines, valves, and equipment that transport and store oil. They should also include adequate training, equipment, and procedures for the workers who handle oil and respond to emergencies. Additionally, they should involve coordination and communication with the relevant authorities, stakeholders, and communities that may be affected by a potential spill.

5 Engage with stakeholders

A fifth way to reduce the environmental impact of offshore drilling is to engage with the stakeholders that may be affected by or interested in the process. Stakeholders can include governments, regulators, investors, customers, suppliers, employees, communities, NGOs, and media. Engaging with stakeholders can help offshore drilling companies understand their expectations, concerns, and feedback regarding their environmental performance. It can also help them communicate their goals, actions, and achievements, and build trust, transparency, and collaboration.

6 Follow best practices and standards

A sixth way to reduce the environmental impact of offshore drilling is to follow the best practices and standards that are established by the industry, regulators, or international organizations. Best practices and standards can provide offshore drilling companies with guidance, benchmarks, and tools to assess and improve their environmental performance. They can also help them comply with the legal and ethical requirements, and demonstrate their commitment and leadership in environmental management.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?