Print this pageAbstract: Integrating Environmental Assessment into Exploration-Development Cycle
The development of mineral and energy resources follows a three-phase life cycle--exploration, delineation, and extraction. Time and money will be saved if an adequate environmental assessment is integrated into this cycle. This concept applies to other mineral and fuel resources, as well as petroleum operations.
When a severe environmental accident occurs, both the operator and the host nation lose time and money. The causes of most such accidents--and also the factors which determine whether mined land can be reclaimed successfully--can be identified during early exploration. Studies aimed at recognizing and avoiding these problems are much more useful than the typical "baseline" studies which seek to describe the biologic and physical environment as it exists prior to the proposed development.
Reconnaissance seismic surveys and other preliminary exploration may be conducted by the government or by prospective contractors. In either situation, the host government should ensure that the data are evaluated for clues to potential geotechnical hazards (e.g., subsurface high-pressure zones or an unstable seafloor), and the results made known to all bidders. In addition, the host government should (1) identify localities or activities which might be especially sensitive, ecologically or economically, and (2) provide specific environmental standards. When these steps are taken, the cost of appropriate environmental countermeasures can be included in all bids.
In the more detailed stages of exploration, potential problems can be evaluated further. After a discovery has been made, site-specific studies are appropriate. In this delineation phase, environmental data should be gathered and integrated with the detailed geologic and engineering data used in planning the development of the mine or oil field.
Throughout the extraction phase, key environmental factors should be monitored. Unforeseen problems can be recognized and abated before significant impact occurs. When the resource has been fully depleted, abandonment and site restoration will complete the cycle.
AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90962©1978 AAPG 2nd Circum-Pacific Energy and Minerals Resource Conference, Honolulu, Hawaii