How can you evaluate the environmental impact of a well?

2 Drilling and completion

The second step in evaluating the environmental impact of a well is to design and implement the drilling and completion activities in a way that reduces the waste generation, water consumption, air emissions, noise, and soil contamination. This involves selecting the appropriate drilling techniques, fluids, and equipment, as well as implementing best practices for waste management, spill prevention, and well integrity. You also need to monitor the performance and environmental indicators of the well, such as the pressure, temperature, flow rate, and composition of the fluids.

4 Impact analysis

The fourth step in evaluating the environmental impact of a well is to analyze the potential and actual impacts of the well on the environment and society. This involves using qualitative and quantitative methods, such as screening, scoping, modeling, measurement, and evaluation, to assess the significance, magnitude, duration, and frequency of the impacts. You also need to compare the impacts with the baseline conditions, the regulatory standards, and the stakeholder expectations, as well as to identify the cumulative and synergistic effects of the impacts.

5 Mitigation measures

The fifth step in evaluating the environmental impact of a well is to propose and implement mitigation measures to avoid, reduce, or compensate for the negative impacts of the well. This involves using the hierarchy of mitigation, which prioritizes prevention over minimization, restoration, and offsetting. You also need to consider the feasibility, effectiveness, cost, and acceptability of the mitigation measures, as well as to monitor and evaluate their performance and outcomes.

6 Reporting and communication

The sixth and final step in evaluating the environmental impact of a well is to report and communicate the results and recommendations of the assessment to the relevant stakeholders, such as the regulators, investors, operators, contractors, communities, and NGOs. This involves preparing and submitting the environmental impact statement, which summarizes the objectives, methods, findings, and actions of the assessment. You also need to engage and consult with the stakeholders, as well as to disclose and disseminate the information in a transparent and accessible way.

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?