The evolution of strategic environmental assessments for oil and gas developments—an approvals practitioner’s perspective
T. Mitchell A and J. Barrow ASinclair Knight Merz (SKM).
The APPEA Journal 52(2) 680-680 https://doi.org/10.1071/AJ11094
Published: 2012
Abstract
Recent impact assessments for large-scale developments in Australia have brought a new focus and evolution in thinking in the application of strategic environmental assessments (SEA). The opportunity to provide a robust strategic-planning framework to facilitate certainty in approvals outcomes and timeframes is balanced by the risks of mis-aligned regulatory and external stakeholder expectations for data, engineering definition, process, and condition-setting that may set onerous precedents.
The need to consider the commercial reality of longer-term strategic assets and the associated confidentiality considerations is particularly important. While the concept of SEA is facing renewed interest in Australia with regulatory signals that it will continue to be made more standard in approach, it is certainly not a new science. Indeed, it is well established in international approvals circles, with some jurisdictions (e.g. the SEA Directive in the European Union) providing valuable insights. If planned well, SEA can deliver positive approvals outcomes with up-front definition of development zones and forward environmental protection objectives.
This extended abstract provides a practitioner’s perspective on the merits of SEA for the oil and gas industry, referencing lessons learnt at domestic and international levels. Selected case studies and practices from other jurisdictions are outlined, with emphasis on providing a practical solution. The present approach to identify best practice objectives for SEA application for achieving optimal benefits for industry, government, and community stakeholders are reviewed. The role of strategic assessment in the context of regional offsets planning is also considered.
Tim Mitchell (BSc, PGDip) is a principal environmental scientist. He has delivered public environmental and social impact assessment/verification reports and provided technical advice for global clients for approvals in the upstream oil and gas, downstream gas processing, land redevelopment, mining, power generation, and industrial sectors. His experience includes projects in Australia, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. |
Janine Barrow (BSc, MSc) is an executive environmental planner who has undertaken and managed a range of sustainability and environmental projects, including environmental and social impact assessments, site selection studies, and sustainability appraisals/strategic environmental assessments. She is adept at strategic planning, notably on environmental and social issues pertaining to industrial/resource projects, with particular experience in WA and the UK. |
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