Marine and coastal environment specialist, BMT Oceanica (BMT), a subsidiary of BMT Group Ltd, has been awarded the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association’s (APPEA) “Understanding the Risks of Unplanned Discharges” study.
BMT Oceanica will be working with Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) to deliver this key project which will update current knowledge on the potential environmental impacts of unplanned releases of hydrocarbons and other chemicals into the marine environment.
Phase one of the project is already underway and includes an international scientific review and the development of vulnerability assessment model that will help APPEA members enhance environmental and oil spill response plans. This will be achieved by aligning risk assessment to the vulnerability of key environmental receptors. This work complements BMT Oceanica’s other current energy consultancy engagements with major operators in Western Australia.
Mark Bailey, Co-Managing Director of BMT Oceanica says that “This project provides further validation of the value and expertise being provided to the Australian oil and gas industry by BMT Oceanica and CSIRO, we are grateful for this challenge and look forward to adding value for APPEA and its members.”
Dr. Kenneth Lee, Director of CSIRO's Oceans and Atmosphere Flagship stated that "This project highlights CSIRO ongoing commitment to provide scientific advice to the offshore oil and gas sector - for use in decision making to ensure the protection of Australia's marine environment and its living resources".